×

Ectothermic organisms depend entirely on the surrounding environment in order to maintain thermal balance. If the environment has low thermal quality, or if they are not in range of their thermal optimum, they must adjust their behavior to compensate. To uncover the mechanisms and driving forces behind lizard thermoregulation, we must first understand how environmental temperatures affect lizards, and how they accordingly respond. In this project, we address questions about the role of humidity and moisture levels in lizard thermoregulation and the impact of the surrounding environment on lizard activity levels. Further, we investigate how regional heterothermy (maintaining different temperatures in different regions of the body) fluctuates in a changing environment. To answer these questions, we will conduct research on the lizard species Podarcis muralis, the Common Wall Lizard. This species is an active diurnal thermoregulator native to Europe, but found in abundance here in southern Ohio. This makes it an ideal organism to conduct experiments studying how ectotherms compensate for environmental changes that impact thermoregulation. We will conduct field transects of natural populations and use 3D printed model lizards to measure operative temperatures in the field. The environment (temperature, humidity, light levels, etc.) and subject (body and cloacal temperature, activity levels, etc.) will be quantified to test hypotheses that will give us insight on understanding how ectothermic organisms respond and adapt to shifts in the environment. As climate change impacts the Earth, many organisms, especially ectotherms, will need to adjust their thermal interactions with the surrounding environment.

×

Eleven out of 42 (26.2%) lizards Acanthodactylus schmidti were found harboring haemogregarines in their peripheral blood. The erythrocytic stages were differentiated into 2 forms: the young form (trophozoite) measured 12.5 +/- 0.5 x 1.7 +/- 0.3 microm and the large mature form (gametocyte) measured 19.8 +/- 1.7 x 1.7 +/- 0.3 microm. The infected erythrocytes were distorted from 16.0 +/- 1.2 x 9.2 +/- 0.2 microm to 20.2 +/- 1.8 x 6.7 +/- 0.8 microm, hypertrophied and faintly stained. None of the leucocytes seemed to be parasitized by the present parasite. Schizogony took place in the endothelial cells of lung capillaries and parenchyma of liver. Two types of schizonts were recorded; microschizonts of 9.35 x 9.65 +/- 0.38 microm and macroschizonts of 25.36 +/-1.81 x 20.35 +/- 0.82 microm. The microschizonts produced 6-12 merozoites, while the macroschizonts produced 18-36 merozoites, however there were no differences between both merozoites, each measured 11.54 +/- 0.81 x 1.41 +/- 0.71 microm. The infected host cells were markedly hypertrophied with noticeable irregularity and faint stainability as well as some vacuolation, necrosis or shrinkage and necrosis.

×

Bicuar National Park (BNP) is a protected area in southwestern Angola where biodiversity has been poorly studied. BNP is located on the Angolan plateau on Kalahari sands, in a transition zone between the Angolan Miombo Woodland and the Zambezian Baikiaea Woodland ecoregions. Herpetological surveys were conducted in BNP and surrounding areas, through visual encounter surveys, trapping, and opportunistic collecting of specimens from 2015 to 2018. The regional herpetofauna is described here based on these surveys, literature records, and additional unpublished records. In total, 16 amphibian, 15 lizard, 18 snake, two testudine, and one crocodilian species were observed from the recent surveys, and in combination with historical records the species counts are 21, 36, 32, four, and one species for these herpetofauna groups, respectively. Important observations include the first record of Xenocalamus bicolor bicolor (Günther, 1868), the second records of Sclerophrys poweri (Hewitt, 1935) and of Amblyodipsas ventrimaculata (Roux, 1907), and the fourth record of Monopeltis infuscata (Broadley, 1997) for Angola. Additionally, the type locality of Hyperolius benguellensis (Bocage, 1893) is discussed. A part of the material could not be confidently identified to species level, reflecting the taxonomic uncertainty associated with the Angolan herpetofauna. Fossorial herpetofauna was well represented, reflecting adaptation to sandy soils, the dominant substrate in the area. The likely presence of endemic and poorly known species in BNP reinforces the importance of the park for the conservation of Angolan biodiversity. Further surveys are necessary for a more comprehensive understanding of the park’s fauna and biogeographic affinities, and to improve conservation planning.

×

The geographic limits of the three high mountain pyrenean lizards (Archaeolacerta bonnali, A. aranica and A. aurelioi) are relatively congruent with the biogeographic sectorizations proposed up till now, although don’t fit well with the hierarchy of these subdivisions. The differentiation degree among conspecific populations is significatively correlated with their separation distances. Our sectorization from the Alpine belt developed in basis to the alpine carabofauna is the first model specifically proposed for these biota. It clusters the alpine massifs in four groups: a) Occidental Pyrenees; b) Central Pyrenees (with a central portion s. str., an aranese portion, and a preoriental portion); and c) Eastern Pyrenees.

×

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of oil pollution in a desert location (the Greater Al-Burgan oil fields, an area damaged in the Gulf War in 1991) in Kuwait on the hepatotoxicity of the Sand lizard Acanthodactylus scutellatus (A. scutellatus). Twenty lizards (10 of each sex) from each polluted and each control sites were collected. Livers were removed from dissected animals and ready for fixation by Bouin`s solution and formal-saline. Twenty sections (10 from males and 10 from females) from each tar mat (polluted) and control sites were prepared and examined for cell diameter and nuclear measurements using Cell Analysis Systems. The cytology of hepatocytes showed normal appearance in samples from the control sites. Dead cells were abundant in the sections of lizard livers from the tar mat sites and occurred in notably greater numbers than the sections of livers of animals from the control sites. Examinations of the data confirm that the cell and nuclear diameters in liver samples of males collected from polluted sites were generally greater than those of corresponding females. The liver sections obtained from animals in the tar mat site had greater cellular diameters than counterparts from control sites. Females from the polluted sites were also affected by oil pollution by having larger hepatocyte diameters and their nuclei were also affected, being larger than female nuclei from the control sites. The most remarkable feature observed in hepatocytes of lizards collected from the tar mat sites were swelling of hepatocytes, ballooning degeneration of hepatic cytoplasm and cell death. This study confirmed that the prolonged exposure to oil pollution may result in increased accumulation of contaminants and may cause severe liver pathology in a range of wild organisms such as A. scutellatus.

×

Color polymorphism is genetically controlled and the process generating and maintaining morphs can affect speciation and/or extinction rates. Competition and aggression among morphs can contribute to polymorphism maintenance and color badges are useful signals in intraspecific communication, because they convey information about alternative strategies and avoid unnecessary conflicts. This could lead to an uneven spatial distribution of morphs in a population, because the local frequency of each morph establishes the intensity of the competition in that neighborhood, and then the fitness of each male. We used a polymorphic lizard, Podarcis muralis, to assess if aggression varies among morphs under two contrasting hypotheses: a heteromorphic vs. a homomorphic aggression. We used laboratory mirror tests after lizard color manipulation and we verified the results consistency with the analysis of the spatial distribution of morphs in a wild population. Both the experiments confirmed that aggression is morph-specific and notably homomorphic. The adoption of behavioral alternative strategies that minimize risks and costs of unwanted conflicts could facilitate the stable coexistence of the phenotypes and reduce the resource competition. A bias in aggression to like-coloured males would advantage rarer morph, which would suffer less harassment by common morphs and obtain a fitness advantage. This process would be negatively-frequency-dependent and would stabilize polymorphism in the populations, possibly leading to sympatric speciation.

×

Plusieurs séjours au Maroc entre 1974 et 1978 effectués soit dans le cadre de la RCP 249 du C.N.R.S. soit à l`occasion de voyages touristiques ont permis de rassembler des informations complémentaires sur l`herpétofaune marocaine. Captures, observations de spécimens écrasés sur les routes, mues et déterminations visuelles ont permis d`établir le texte qui suit. Il nous a paru intéressant de rassembler les observations ainsi obtenues avant leur Intégration dans un atlas des Reptiles du Maroc qui devrait voir le jour sous peu. Le découpage régional qui a été retenu est celui qui a été proposé par J. BONS (1967). Les observations les plus originales sont marquées d`un astérisque (*) et certaines sont commentées dans la conclusion.

×

The aim of the present work was to study the possible role of adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) 38 in the testicular intracellular mechanism regulating steroidogenesis of crested newt, Triturus carnifex. Gonads were incubated in vitro with PACAP 38 and prostaglandin (PG) E(2) alone or with inhibitors of cyclooxygenase (COX), adenylate cyclase (AC), and phospholipase C (PLC) for 30 min and 60 min. PGE(2), PGF(2 alpha), testosterone, and estradiol-17 beta were measured in the culture medium; aromatase (AR) activity and cAMP were assessed in the tissue. PACAP 38 increased PGE(2) (30 min and 60 min), estradiol-17 beta (60 min), cAMP (60 min), and AR (60 min) but decreased testosterone (60 min). PGE(2) increased estradiol-17 beta, cAMP, and AR and decreased testosterone at 30 and 60 min.PLC inhibitor counteracted the effects of PACAP 38, while AC inhibitor counteracted these effects except for PGE(2) increase. AC inhibitor counteracted the effects of PGE(2), while PLC did not. COX inhibitor decreased PGF(2 alpha) (30 min and 60 min), PGE(2) (30 min and 60 min), estradiol-17 beta (60 min), cAMP (60 min), and AR (60 min), but increased testosterone (60 min). These in vitro results suggest that, in newt testis, PACAP 38 acts on PLC, inducing the increase of PGE(2) which, in turn, acting on AC, increases AR activity with the consequent estradiol-17 beta increase and testosterone decrease.

×

Novel data on the distribution, habitats and population density of the Crimean (Balkan) wall lizard, Podarcis tauricus (Pallas, 1814) in the Odessa Province of the Ukraine are given. For the majority of the localities known from the literature data in the Pre-Danube Region, the current dwelling of the species was confirmed, and its population density over limited areas remains quite high, namely: from 5–10 to 70–100 specimens/1000 sq. m. The northernmost point of the P. tauricus geographical range in the Odessa Province was revealed on the territory of Tatarbunarsky district (N 45.7791, E 29.4843). At the same time, the Crimean wall lizard was not found by us in the area between the Dniester River and the Tiligulskyi Liman, although this species had been known there from few records during the 20th century. This allows one to assume that the P. tauricus range in the North-Western Black Sea Region has de- creased. The tendency of using some types of anthropogenic habitats in the Steppe zone of Ukraine by the Crimean wall lizard, as well as cases of its syntopy with other Lacertidae species, are discussed.

×

The paper discusses cases of eggs re-laying in two lizard species from the Darevskia (chlorogaster) com- plex. A male and a female of D. Chlorogaster were captured on 22 March, 2016 in the Gilan province (Iran), and she subsequently laid eggs on 29 May (4 eggs) and 5 July (4 ones). The eggs had length of 10.4–12.8 mm, the width of 6.1–6.5 mm, and the weight of 0.240–0.340 g. Young lizards came out from seven eggs after 52–55 days of incubation. The body length of these newborn lizards was 22.9–27.8 mm, the tail length was 38.5–46.5 mm, and the weight was 0.330–0.460 g. A male and a female of D. caspica were captured on May 22 in the Mazandaran province (Iran). The female laid eggs on June 15 (3 eggs) and July 12 (4 ones). The length of the eggs was 10.0–12.0 mm, the width was 5.0–7.0 mm, and the weight was 0.220–0.310. Young lizards exited from all eggs in 54–68 days. Their body length was 23.1– 26.0 mm, the tail length was 39.0–47.0 mm, and the weight was 0.300–0.390 g. The authors believe that these cases prove the possibility of multiple reproductions per season in D. chlorogaster and D. caspica.

×

Aims: To characterize the genetic and morphological diversification of the endan- gered Balearic lizard Podarcis lilfordi and to assess the relevance of this diversity, and how it is described, to conservation measures. Location: This study covers all the populations of the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, present in its range of distribution at coastal islets of Menorca, Mallorca and Cabrera Archipelago. Methods: We analysed genetic and morphological variation across the 43 known extant populations of the Balearic lizard, using mitochondrial and nuclear markers. We examined morphometric and scalation characters using, in some cases, phyloge- netically independent contrasts. We also incorporated the study of dorsal coloration and dorsal colour pattern including the analysis of melanism in several populations. Results: We detected clear genetic divergence between Menorcan populations and populations from Mallorca and Cabrera, in both nuclear and mtDNA markers, but genetic divergence is relatively low among different insular populations within these groups. In contrast, morphological divergence was substantial both between Menorcan and remaining populations and within these groups. Morphological traits, such as dorsal coloration, body size and the number and size of scales, seemed to be linked with differences in climatic conditions between populations. In addition, some traits, as melanism, showed a strong phylogenetic signal. Main conclusions: The morphological and genetic diversity of the Balearic lizard is incongruent with the subspecies described in the classical taxonomic literature. Moreover, current populations differ not only in some genetic and morphological features, but also in several ecological and ethological characteristics, in many cases unique to one population. Based on our results, we propose abandoning the use of subspecies to describe the extraordinary morphological diversity of the Balearic liz- ard and its replacement with the concept of evolutionary significant units (ESUs). ESUs are particularly suitable to describe and recognize such diversity and, especially, to ensure the continuity of the evolutionary process.

×

The common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis, is a widely distributed European lizard which has been often introduced across the continent, including north of the continuous species range. Three such populations were recently discovered in the Strzelin Hills in Poland, but no information is available about their origin. We studied the morphological variation, demographic structure and ecology of these populations, as well as their possible origin based on cytochrome b mtDNA sequences. Between 2011 and 2019, the lizards were annually active from the first half of March to mid-October. Males attained significantly larger snout-vent length than females and had relatively larger heads. Almost half of all captured individuals exhibited at least one pileus scale anomaly. Analysis of colour polymorphism revealed the occurrence of three morphs: white, white-red and red. The oldest lizards reached the age of 8 years. These parameters of Polish populations do not deviate from those of other populations from similar latitudes. Molecular analysis revealed that they belong to the most common haplotype of Central European haplogroup I of the Central Balkan clade. This haplotype is widely distributed across the Czech Republic and Slovakia; however, genetic data do not allow determination of the exact origin of the Polish population. Human-mediated introduction from the closest localities, the Czech Republic or Slovakia, is probable but the relict status cannot at present be excluded.

×

Three mantid species, Tenodera aridifolia (Stoll), Hierodura patellifera (Serville), and Statilia maculata Thunberg, of varying body size and habitats, exhibited defensive reactions when faced with a natural enemy, the Japanese skink, Takydromus tachydromoides (Schlegel). Defensive reactions were analyzed as primary or secondary defenses for all stages. Of the primary defenses, the cryptic reaction was the main defensive reaction: mantids lowered the prothorax and simultaneously stretched the prothoracic legs, the antennae were arranged forward, and the abdomen was sometimes extended posteriorly. The frequency of the subcryptic reaction as a primary defense tended to increase with more advanced developmental stage. The primary defensive strategy switched at specific developmental stage and also depended on the distance between the prey mantid and the natural enemy. In some instars, T. aridifolia and H. patellifera displayed the cryptic reaction when the mantid—foe distance was long, whereas they displayed the subcryptic reaction when the mantid—foe distance was short. However, S. maculata did not switch defense strategies based on the mantid—foe distance. The secondary defenses of young instar nymphs of T. aridifolia and H. patellifera were primarily defensive reactions, whereas the frequency of aggressive reactions tended to increase with developmental stage. S. maculata did not display aggressive reactions during any stage. We concluded that the primary and secondary defenses used by mantids depend on the developmental stage and mantid—foe distance. Moreover, three mantid species that vary in both body size and habitat showed different defensive reactions when faced with a natural enemy.

×

Darevskia rock lizards is a unique complex taxa, including more than thirty species, seven of which are parthenogenetic. in mixed populations of Darevskia lizards, tri- and tetraploid forms can be found. the most important issues in the theory of reticulate evolution of Darevskia lizards are the origin of parthenogenetic species and their taxonomic position. However, there is little data on how meiosis proceeds in these species. The present work reports the complex results of cytogenetics in a diploid parthenogenetic species – D. unisexualis. Here we detail the meiotic prophase I progression and the specific features оf mitotic chromosomes organization. The stages of meiosis prophase I were investigated by immunocytochemical analysis of preparations obtained from isolated primary oocytes of D. unisexualis in comparison with maternal species D. raddei nairensis. It has been shown that in D. unisexualis at the leptotene-zygotene stages the axial elements and the synaptonemal complex (SC) form typical “bouquets”. At the pachytene-diplotene stage, 18 autosomal SC-bivalents and thickened asynapted sex Z and w univalents were observed. The presence of SYCP1 protein between the lateral elements of autosomal chromosomes proved the formation of assembled Scs. comparative genomic hybridization (cGH) on the mitotic metaphase chromosomes of D. unisexualis was carried out using the genomic DnA isolated from the parental species D. raddei nairensis and D. valentini. in the pericentromeric regions of half of the mitotic chromosomes of D. unisexualis, specific regions inherited from maternal species have been found. Following our results, we suggest a model for diploid germ cells formation from diploid oocytes without premeiotic duplication of chromosomes in the oogenesis of diploid parthenogenetic lizards D. unisexualis. Taken as a whole, our findings confirm the hybrid nature of D. unisexualis and shed light on heterozygosity and automixis in diploid parthenogenetic forms.

×

Following habitat fragmentation, the remnant faunal community will undergo a period of species loss or ‘relaxation.’ Theory predicts that species with particular life-history traits, such as a small population size, small geographical range, low fecundity and large body size, should be more vulnerable to fragmentation. In this study, we investigated the relationships between the above life-history traits and the fragmentation vulnerability index (the number of islands occupied) of five lizard species inhabiting recently isolated land-bridge islands in the Thousand Island Lake, China. Data on life-history traits were collected from field surveys (population density) and from the literature (body size, clutch size and geographical range size). The species–area relationships for lizards sampled from the mainland versus on the islands differed significantly (i.e. the number of species inhabiting islands was decreased relative to similar-sized areas on the mainland), indicating that species extinction has occurred on all of the study islands following isolation. For the fragmentation vulnerability index, model selection based on Akaike’s information criterion identified natural density at mainland sites as the best correlate of vulnerability to fragmentation, supporting the hypothesis that rare species are most vulnerable to local extinction and will be lost first from fragmented landscapes. In contrast, there was little evidence for an effect of lizards’ snout–vent length, clutch size or geographical range size on fragmentation vulnerability. Identification of species traits that render some species more vulnerable to fragmentation than others has important implications for conservation and can be used to aid direct management efforts.

×

Ilya S. Darevsky co-described 70 taxa (three genera, 46 species, 21 subspecies) in 44 publications belonging to five orders, eight families of amphibians and reptiles during his career in herpetology. Of this number, three taxa are fossil and 57 taxa are currently considered as valid. By the regions where new taxa were discovered Southeast Asia and Western Asia (includes Caucasus and Asia Minor) dominates. The largest number of descriptions was published in the Russian Journal of Herpetology.

×

Hybrid zones provide insights into the evolution of reproductive isolation. Sexual selection can contribute to the evolution ofreproductive barriers, but it remains poorly understood how sexual traits impact gene flow in secondary contact. Here, we showthat a recently evolved suite of sexual traits that function in male-male competition mediates gene flow between two lineages ofwall lizards (Podarcis muralis). Gene flow was relatively low and asymmetric in the presence of exaggerated male morphology andcoloration compared to when the lineages share the ancestral phenotype. Putative barrier loci were enriched in genomic regionsthat were highly differentiated between the two lineages and showed low concordance between the transects. The exceptionwas a consistently low genetic exchange aroundATXN1, a gene that modulates social behavior. We suggest that this gene maycontribute to the male mate preferences that are known to cause lineage-assortative mating in this species. Although female choicemodulates the degree of reproductive isolation in a variety of taxa, wall lizards demonstrate that both male-male competition and male mate choice can contribute to the extent of gene flow between lineages.

×

The ability to shed (autotomize) all or part of the tail, usually in response to predator attack, and often to subsequently regenerate it is widespread in lizards and amphisbaenians and also occurs in a few snakes and in the tuatara. Most species possess a sophisticated intravertebral autotomy mechanism which seems to be primitive in the Squamata. This appears to have been independently lost in members of many groups, but some agamids and snakes have regained the ability to shed their tails by a simpler intervertebral means and a -number of agamids have also redeveloped tail regeneration as well. Breakable tails are used to evade capture in two main ways: by enabling reptiles to break away from predators that have grasped them by the tail and by providing a distraction which deflects the attention of the attacker away from the vulnerable head and body. It is argued that loss of caudal autotomy has occurred when the costs of tail shedding outweigh its benefits. Likely costs include the expense of regrowing the tail and the loss of a variety of possible tail functions that may cause partial incapacitation, at least until the tail regenerates. Benefits of autotomy are liable to be low if predation is rare, if the animal is able to protect itself effectively in other ways, if it is too slow to evade further pursuit after the tail is shed, or if the tail is small or unpalatable and consequently not likely to distract a predator. Benefit variation may well be greater than cost variation and therefore more important in initiating the loss of autotomy mechanisms. Many taxa that do not shed the tail appear to conform to the above interpretation, but in some cases, such as the Platynota, Agamidae and Chamaeleonidae, lack of intravertebral autotomy may reflect the history of these groups rather than being a direct result of present ecological pressures. The distribution of intervertebral autotomy in the Agamidae suggests that it may have evolved only in rather special circumstances where tail fragility is advantageous even in the absence of the ability to regenerate. Restriction ot autotomy planes to the tail-base, so that the whole organ is lost, a condition found in a number of relatively slow-moving geckoes, is interpreted as a means of ensuring that enough of the tail is shed to distract a predator from further pursuit. The stimulus necessary to induce autotomy can vary rapidly in individual lizards and at least some of these changes probably maximize the effectiveness of the tail-shedding mechanism. Differences in the readiness with which all or part of the tail is shed exist between species and are likely to reflect the balance of costs and benefits in particular cases. Variations in incidence of broken tails between species and populations may be due to such differences in fragility but many other factors may play a part, including the age structure of samples, incidence of unsuccessful attacks by predators and ability to evade predators after autotomy. There is a clear tendency for climbing lizards, especially those living on rock surfaces, to have higher incidences of broken tails than ground-dwelling species, perhaps because the tail is usually less important in locomotion in the first group. Many lizards possess conspicuously coloured tails and tail movements that seem likely to help distract attention from the head and body. Conspicuous tail colouring is more frequent and often better developed in young animals, which tend to be more vulnerable than adults, and in active species from open habitats where crypsis may not always be very effective. Conspicuous tails usually have contrasting light and dark areas in nocturnal forms but are often a single bright colour in diurnal ones, probably reflecting the visual capacities of their respective predators. The predominance of blue tails in day-active species may be because this colour is striking close to but not very arresting at a distance, so it may not attract predators from far away while still drawing their attention at close quarters.

×

Systematische Untersuchungen zur Herpetofauna der Stadt Essen sind zuletzt in den 1980er Jahren durchgeführt worden. Die Ergebnisse wurden seinerzeit auch publiziert, liegen hinsichtlich der Fundorte aber nur auf Basis von Quadratkilometer-Rasterflächen vor. Seit 1990 hat es keine flächendeckenden Kartierungen mehr gegeben. Auch im Rahmen der landesweiten Neukartierung (1993-2010) wurden fast keine neuen Funde mehr für Essen gemeldet. Einige wenige ältere Nachweise konnten nachträglich lokalisiert werden. Erst im Rahmen der Online-Erfassungen seit 2012 sind wieder einige konkrete Fundpunkte erfasst worden. Anhand der Datenbanken des Arbeitskreises Amphibien und Reptilien NRW, der BSWR und veröffentlichter Daten wurden 303 Datensätze generiert, von denen 82 lokalisierbare Fundpunkte für Essen sind. Die allermeisten Funde konzentrieren sich auf den Essener Süden. Die mit Abstand häufigste Art ist die Blindschleiche, gefolgt von Ringelnatter und Zauneidechse. Die Waldeidechse ist in Essen dagegen extrem selten. Neu für Essen ist das Vorkommen der Mauereidechse am Rhein-Herne-Kanal. Wasserschildkröten kommen stellenweise ausgesetzt vor, reproduzieren sich aber nicht. Ein mögliches ehemaliges Vorkommen von Schlingnatter und Kreuzotter wird diskutiert. Ob alle Ringelnattern zur Barren-Ringelnatter Natrix (n.) helvetica gezählt werden können ist nicht klar. Veränderungen der relativen Häufigkeit von Arten deuten auf tatsächliche Veränderungen in der Reptilienfauna hin. Blindschleichen sind demnach eventuell seltener geworden, Ringelnattern und ausgesetzte Schildkröten haben dagegen zugenommen.

×

In this article we provide new data of amphibians and reptiles distribution in Teruel province: 81 unpublished records. These records constitute the first observation for a given herpetological specie in a 10 km x 10 UTM square. As a result of a bibliographical review until January 2004, the species cited in Teruel province are 30: 8 species of amphibians and 22 of reptiles, one of these reptiles has been introduced, Trachemys scripta.

×

The genus Psammodromus (Lacertidae) comprises six species. Three of the species are morphologically similar, phylogenetically closely related, and are distributed in the Iberian Peninsula (besides P. algirus): P. occidentalis (Western Iberia), P. hispanicus (Central Spain), and P. edwarsianus (Eastern Spain). Previous studies have shown these three species to have allopatric distributions in Iberia, though there are still many areas such as Andalucia where it is unclear which species of Psammodromus occurs. In this study we present nine new records of Psammodromus from key places in southern Spain. Since the three Iberian species are difficult to differentiate by morphology, specimens were genetically identified using mitochondrial DNA data and compared to all six species of the genus. Here we present an updated distribution map of Psammodromus specimens identified with molecular methods, increasing the ranges of all three species. We also propose wider regions of potential sympatry between P. occidentalis and P. hispanicus, and P. edwarsianus and P. hispanicus than previously recorded.

×

Alkylphenols (AP) are widespread environmental compounds belonging to the large family of substances known as Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs). The present study was carried out to assess the effects of Octylphenol (OP) alone and in combination with Nonylphenol (NP) on the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal gland (HPA) axis of the lizard Podarcis sicula. Lizards are good bioindicators due to their features such as wide distribution, large population and good sensitivity to contaminants. Results obtained showed a time and dose-dependent stimulation of the HPA together with a high variation of both catecholamine plasma levels and greater vascularization and hypertrophy of steroidogenic cord of adrenal gland after both OP and OP+NP treatments. Interestingly, the OP+NP mixture treatment has provoked a state of stress of the adrenal gland which in fact appeared to be characterized by the presence of a marked macrophage infiltration which can be seen especially close to the connective capsule surrounding the gland. This macrophage infiltration could be an evidence of a particularly pronounced inflammatory state to indicate, probably, an animal’s response to a non-physiological situation.

×

Between March and October 1992 the herpetofauna of the municipality Much was surveyed qualitatively and semiquantitatively on the basis of a square-kilometregrid-map. 9 species of amphibians and 3 species of reptiles were recorded: Fire Salamander (Salamandra salamandra terrestris), alpine newt (Triturus a. alpestris), smooth newt (Triturus v. vulgaris), palmate newt (Triturus h. helveticus), midwife toad (Alytes o. obstetricans), common toad (Bufo b. bufo), common tree frog (Hyla a. arborea), grass frog (Rana t. temporaria), edible frog (Rana kl. esculenta), pool frog (Rana lessonae); viviparous lizard (Zootoca v. vivipara), slow worm (Anguis f. fragilis) and grass snake (Natrix n. natrix and Natrix n. Helvetica). The distribution of these species is compared with the Situation in Nortrhine-Westphalia (NRW). Grass frog, common toad, alpine newt, smooth newt, viviparous lizard, slow worm and grass snake were widespread and had locally large populations in the municipality Much. The species edible frog, common tree frog, midwife toad and palmate newt were considered to be rare in this area, because only isolated and very small populations exist. The fire Salamander is abundant in the West of the area along the Naaf and Wahn stream valleys, whereas it is absent in the Northeast and the South. The yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata) is considered to be extinct. In contrast to similar studies the amphibians spawned more often in ponds stocked with fish, leading to the conclusion that there is a lack of small water bodies in the investigated area. The loss of this kind of water body, beside the eutrophy caused by fish and cattle breeding, is considered to be the most important threatening factor for the herpetofauna.

×

Background The regenerating blastema of the tail in the lizard Podarcis muralis contains numerous macrophages among the prevalent mesenchymal cells. Some macrophages are phagocytic but others are devoid of phagosomes suggesting that they have other roles aside phagocytosis. Methods The presence of healing macrophages (M2-like) has been tested using autoradiographic, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural studies. Results Autoradiography shows an uptake of tritiated arginine in sparse cells of the blastema and in the regenerating epidermis. Bioinformatics analysis suggests that epitopes for arginase-1 and -2, recognized by the employed antibody, are present in lizards. Immunofluorescence shows sparse arginase immunopositive macrophages in the blastema and few macrophages also in the apical wound epidermis. The ultrastructural study shows that macrophages contain dense secretory granules, most likely inactive lysosomes, and small cytoplasmic pale vesicles. Some of the small vesicles are arginase-positive while immunolabeling is very diffuse in the macrophage cytoplasm. Conclusions The presence of cells incorporating arginine and of arginase 1-positive cells suggests that M2-like macrophages are present among mesenchymal and epidermal cells of the regenerative tail blastema. M2-like macrophages may promote tail regeneration differently from the numerous pro-inflammatory macrophages previously detected in the scarring limb. The presence of M2-like macrophages in addition to hyaluronate, support the hypothesis that the regenerative blastema of the tail in lizards is an immuno-privileged organ where cell proliferation and growth occur without degenerating in a tumorigenic outgrowth.

×

Longevity and age of sexual maturity are key life history trait factors directly linked to ecological and evolutionary aspects. In this study, we determined age structure of Parvilacerta parva individuals from Sivas (Turkey) using skeletochronology. The maximum age was found to be seven years for females and six years for males of P. parva. A significant relationship was found between age and body size in individuals whose head length, head width and body length were measured. Additionally, it was seen that there is a significant relationship among body length, head length and head width.

×

In this study, morphological and phylogenetic relationships between the populations of the dwarf lizard (Parvilacerta parva), whose distribution area is large Anatolian Peninsula, were investigated. In addition, how the climatic factors affect the distribution of the species today and in the past (at the last glacial maximum) has been demonstrated, and species distribution model maps of have been drawn and possible refigiums have been determined. The modeling results showed that especially climatic factors are effective in colonizing Anatolian populations of dwarf lizard. Lizards, which were in refugias among Western Anatolia and Van region in the past, are currently spreading to steppe habitats of Anatolia. Statistical analysis on morphological characters have shown that there is a macro-regional colonization as a result of past climate-based mobility rather than today`s geography and landscapes in accordance with the distribution dynamics of the species. In this context, gradual changes and significant correlations were detected between the Eastern, Central and Western Anatolian macro-regions. Phylogenetic analyzes were performed on mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (862 bp). The sequences of this gene were tested with maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference. Although the bootstrap values of some branches cannot have very high scores due to it is just a within species study, it is observed that the Eastern Anatolian populations are in a separate clad compare to Central and Western Anatolian populations and the Western populations are labelled as the youngest populations by using Bayesian inference analysis. Divergence time analyzes have also shown that the seperations in the colonization of the species are climate-based rather than geographical barriers. Because of the optimal mild climatic conditions, the species is dispersed from the refugiums. As a result, every significant branching in the phylogenetic tree was found to coincide with the interglacial periods, especially in the Pleistocene age. It was also calculated that the species might be separated from the Fraas lizard (Parvilacerta fraasi), another member of the genus Parvilacerta, in the period when the effects of Messinian salinity crisis were observed.

×

We have previously described the spontaneous regeneration of retinal ganglion cell axons after optic nerve (ON) transection in the adult Gallotia galloti. As neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) is involved in neuronal differentiation, survival and synaptic plasticity, we performed a comparative immunohistochemical study of NT-3 during the ontogeny and regeneration (after 0.5, 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months postlesion) of the lizard visual system to reveal its distribution and changes during these events. For characterization of NT-3(+) cells, we performed double labelings using the neuronal markers HuC-D, Pax6 and parvalbumin (Parv), the microglial marker tomato lectin or Lycopersicon esculentum agglutinin (LEA), and the astroglial markers vimentin (Vim) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Subpopulations of retinal and tectal neurons were NT-3(+) from early embryonic stages to adulthood. Nerve fibers within the retinal nerve fiber layer, both plexiform layers and the retinorecipient layers in the optic tectum (OT) were also stained. In addition, NT-3(+)/GFAP(+) and NT-3(+)/Vim(+) astrocytes were detected in the ON, chiasm and optic tract in postnatal and adult lizards. At 1 month postlesion, abundant NT-3(+)/GFAP(+) astrocytes and NT-3(-)/LEA(+) microglia/macrophages were stained in the lesioned ON, whereas NT-3 became downregulated in the experimental retina and OT. Interestingly, at 9 and 12 months postlesion, the staining in the experimental retina resembled that in control animals, whereas bundles of putative regrown fibers showed a disorganized staining pattern in the OT. Altogether, we demonstrate that NT-3 is widely distributed in the lizard visual system and its changes after ON transection might be permissive for the successful axonal regrowth.

×

The last species list of the European herpetofauna was published by Speybroeck, Beukema and Crochet (2010). In the meantime, ongoing research led to numerous taxonomic changes, including the discovery of new species-level lineages as well as reclassifications at genus level, requiring significant changes to this list. As of 2019, a new Taxonomic Committee was established as an official entity within the European Herpetological Society, Societas Europaea Herpetologica (SEH). Twelve members from nine European countries reviewed, discussed and voted on recent taxonomic research on a case-by-case basis. Accepted changes led to critical compilation of a new species list, which is hereby presented and discussed. According to our list, 301 species (95 amphibians, 15 chelonians, including six species of sea turtles, and 191 squamates) occur within our expanded geographical definition of Europe. The list includes 14 non-native species (three amphibians, one chelonian, and ten squamates).

×

Mesalina is a genus of small xeric lizards currently comprising 19 species distributed from West Africa throughout the Saharo-Sindian deserts to the Indo-Iranian plateau. Previous phylogenetic studies highlighted the presence of cryptic diversity within the genus and described new Mesalina species from its eastern lineages. In this study, we investigated the taxonomy and systematics within the Mesalina olivieri species complex, focusing on the Atlantic Sahara (from Morocco to Mauritania). The species complex is currently represented by three recognised species, all of them present in this region: M. olivieri, M. pasteuri and M. simoni. Using an integrative taxonomy approach based on morphological (pholidotic, coloration and pattern) and molecular (one mtDNA and four nuDNA markers) datasets, we provide robust evidences for the existence of additional taxa within the M. olivieri complex is provided, including an undescribed species in Mauritania. Mesalina sp. nov. . All M. olivieri that cluster together with M. simoni were proposed to be included as subspecies of the latter (M. simoni ssp. nov.). The clade including Mesalina sp. nov. and M. simoni diverged from M. olivieri and M. pasteuri around 9.5 Mya whereas these two latter species separated 1 or 2 Mya later in the end of the Miocene. The combined analyses supported a new classification of the Mesalina olivieri species complex into four extant species. The new species is sympatric with M. pasteuri in Mauritania but it is phylogenetically and morphologically divergent from it. Species distribution modelling suggests that the new taxon occurs exclusively in the rocky areas of the Adrar Atar plateau and neighbouring regions. The relatively wide but fragmented distribution of Mesalina sp. nov. suggests that its conservation status is Least Concern (LC).

×

The last catalogue of the Reptile collection of the Museu Bocage dates back to 1972. The collections were lost in a fire 25 years ago, so it was necessary to analyse the effort of various donors, who offered the Museum a new collection. The evaluation of the sampling effort is important to gather information (on quantity and origin) and the various samples of the species of lacertid lizards present in the Museum and enables an operational and practical visual imaged of that information. The obtained results prove that the study of the sampling effort using ordinary kriging method is robust and accurate on identifying gaps (under or no sampled areas) and a helpful tool to fulfil them. Although beginning to the representative of the Portuguese fauna, the lacertid collection of the Museu Bocage needs major improvements given that it still does not illustrate the actual distribution of lacertid lizards in Portugal. In order to stand for modern standards, when complementing the existing collection we must take into account not only the information provided by the analysis but also conservationist concerns (not killing animals) and the establishment of co-partnerships with congener institutions as well. Nowadays Museums have the duty, more than ever, to keep their collections well housed, cared for and accessible to the scientific community.

×

Theoretical and field studies suggest that inferior competitors may be able to avoid costly agonistic interactions, although the mechanisms involved are poorly understood in lizards. The “Dear enemy recognition” theory proposes that higher tolerance among familiar than among unfamiliar conspecifics may reduce costly interactions. Male lizards Lacerta monticola are able to discriminate between familiar and unfamiliar conspecific males through chemical signals alone. To better understand the implications of this discrimination ability, we performed a laboratory experiment on the role of familiarity in social tolerance estimated as the degree of spatial proximity with no sign of aggressiveness between males with a size asymmetry. In natural conditions the outcome of neighbour-stranger interactions might be the result of asymmetries in residence. Therefore, we staged pairwise encounters between familiar and unfamiliar males in neutral terraria to avoid an interacting effect of residency asymmetry. The latency to the first time in close proximity was significantly longer when small males were faced with unfamiliar males. The time that unfamiliar lizards spent in close proximity was significantly lower than that with familiar males. Our design allowed us to conclude that there was a higher social tolerance among familiar individuals with a size asymmetry that was independent of residency asymmetry.

×

The purpose of this study was to analyse selected factors determining the level of infestation of Ixodes ricinus ticks on Lacerta agilis and Zootoca vivipara lizards found in Central Europe. Both environmental factors (habitats within protected areas and areas transformed as a result of human activity) as well as morphological factors (age, sex and size of lizards, location of ticks on the lizard’s body) were assessed. We found that the age and size of a lizard played a significant role in the level of infestation, but this depended on the species and habitat. Females of both species differed significantly in their level of tick infestation; females of L. agilis had lower infection than Z. vivipara. In contrast, there was no difference in levels of infection between juveniles and males of the different species. We also found that the impact of body size changed in the different habitats: the number of ticks increased with body size in natural areas only. In addition, more frequently ticks were found in the front groin area (336 individuals) and forelimbs (202), less often on the neck (12) and never in the hind groin area. These differences might be because it is easier to infest a larger individual than a smaller one, and areas of the front of the lizard might be more accessible whilst foraging. This study provides additional information about tick infestation that may be relevant to the conservation of the species of lizards.

×

Monfragüe National Park (Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain) is a protected area in central‐western Iberia, including some of the best preserved primary Mediterranean vegetation. Legal protection dates back to 1979 (first as a Natural Park and then as a National Park), but knowledge about its reptile communities is so far limited to sparse records. In this paper we present an updated species list based on 521 records covering 163 1x1 km UTM grids in the study area, compiled in the period 2000‐2019. We detected 20 native species, representing 71.4% of the reptile fauna in Extremadura and 35% of the ibero‐balearic reptile fauna. Additionally, based on molecular analyses populations of the amphisbaenid genus Blanus in the study area are assigned to the oriental Iberian taxon, B. cinereus. The new records extend the known distribution of the different reptile species in the study area in 56 10x10 km UTM grids. Species presenting more restricted distributions in Monfragüe are Lacerta schreiberi (one 1x1 grid), Emys orbicularis, and Acanthodactylus erythrurus (four 10x10 grids each).

×

Females of several lizard species modify their body temperature during pregnancy, probably in connection with the optimisation of hatchling phenotypes. We studied variations in the temperature selected by gravid females compared with those selected by males and non-gravid females in an oviparous population of Zootoca vivipara (Jacquin, 1797) (Squamata: Lacertidae) of Northern Spain and examined the effects of incubation temperature on the phenotypic variation of hatchlings. Cloacal temperatures of gravid females active in the field were lower than those of males and non-gravid females, as well as the temperatures selected in a thermal gradient created in the laboratory (mean±s.d.: 32.33±1.27 °C for gravid females; 34.05±1.07 °C for males and non-gravid females). Effects of temperature were assessed by incubating eggs at five constant temperatures (21, 25, 29, 32 and 34 °C). Incubation time decreased as temperature increased, following a negative exponential function. Incubation temperatures also affected the hatchlings’ morphology: hatchlings incubated at 34 °C had shorter heads than those from other temperatures. Survival at 34 °C (58%) was significantly lower than at the other temperatures (mean 93%). Pregnant females select lower body temperature, approaching the temperatures that optimise hatchling phenotypes, according to predictions of the maternal manipulation hypothesis on the evolution of viviparity. The shift in preferred temperature by pregnant females would result in only a very short delay, if any, of hatching time and, because the temperature selected by pregnant females is much higher than average temperatures recorded in natural nests of Z. vivipara, egg retention considerably shortens incubation time, according to predictions of the cold-climate hypothesis. Our experimental results indicate that the two main hypotheses on the evolution of viviparity are compatible in our study model.

×

Species distribution modelling is a powerful tool that can gives us ecological insights about species distributions, and potential effects of environmental factors, in poorly known habitats. For the first time the distribution of terrestrial reptiles in Saudi Arabia was modelled, and environmental factors that affect their current distribution and richness investigated. Reptiles are a major vertebrate group in Saudi Arabia and protecting them should be a priority for conservation in such an arid environment. Temperature was the most important of eleven predictors. Maximum species richness of reptiles was predicted in the central plateau, north-western borders, and in coastal areas of Saudi Arabia. Overall, the predicted and the observed patterns of species richness followed a similar pattern. Our analysis revealed that large scattered parts of Saudi Arabia are considered under-sampled in terms of sampling efforts of terrestrial reptile species. Our results represent the most comprehensive description of terrestrial reptile diversity distributions and habitat suitability in Saudi Arabia to date.

×

Allelic polymorphism of three microsatellite loci from the genome of parthenogenetic lizard Darevskia unisexualis was characterized using analysis of free energy (Gibbs energy) of the DNA/DNA duplex formation within the stepwise mutational model. It was demonstrated that the number of microsatellite cluster monomericic units would change to decrease the mean free energy of the locus. In addition, based on the analysis of nucleotide composition, the GC content of each locus was evaluated, and belonging of the loci examined to certain isochore families was suggested.

×

A new nematode species, Rhabdias lacertae n. sp. (Rhabdiasidae), is described from the body-cavity of the common lizard Lacerta vivipara Jacquin (Lacertidae) from the Ridge of Malá Fatra (Sokolie Hill), north-western Slovakia. The new species differs from its congeners mainly in possessing 3 min cuticular spikes at the tail tip and some other features. This is the first species of Rhabdias Stiles & Hassall, 1905 described from lizards in Europe and the first species of this genus parasitising hosts belonging to the Lacertidae.

×

Numerous studies showed that habitat fragmentation can affect the constitution of species by impairing living conditions, impeding gene flow and thereby reducing genetic variability. However, populations of the same species may react less sensitive to fragmentation in the core than in the periphery of its distribution range. In the core they are assumed to be more euryoecious compared to the periphery, where they are assumed to be stenoecious with lower genetic diversity and higher genetic differentiation. We tested this hypothesis by comparing the genetic variability of 215 individuals of ten populations of Lacerta viridis from fragmented habitats within its distribution center in Bulgaria using genotype data of 19 microsatellite loci. We could not detect significant alteration of genetic variation, regardless of patch size and isolation by distance, indicating that fragmentation indeed did not had a strong impact on L. viridis in the core area of its historical and recent distribution range. We cannot rule out that the time elapsed since habitat fragmentation occurred was too short to yield a genetic response. However, in a similar study on L. agilis, which is stenoecious in Bulgaria, all genetic diversity indices declined with patch size. This provides indications that fragmentation at present does not have a strong effect on the genetic variation of Bulgarian L. viridis populations.

×

The phylogenetic relationships and possible origin of a putative non-native population of Podarcis muralis in Ukraine were assessed based on sequences of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome b. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the Ukrainian lizards belong to two, distinct mitochondrial lineages (haplogroups), both occurring within the Central Balkan clade, which includes most of central and south-eastern European populations. From overall three detected Ukrainian haplotypes, one haplotype share same genetic signal with the hyplotype from the locality Bjala (Bulgaria), the other two are unique for Ukrainian population. Two of haplotypes correspond with haplogroup covering large geographic region of Bulgaria, Serbia, and Romania. These results reinforce previous findings that the species has the ability to establish new populations out of its native range. While most introductions to Germany and Britain have been deliberate, it appears likely that human transport of goods via the Danube river of goods is responsible for the range expansion into Ukraine.

×

The sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) is a common species in Europe that inhabits a wide range of habitats, including anthropogenic environments. It is a frequent carrier of common ticks (Ixodes ricinus), which poses a severe threat to the lizards’ health. We determined the living space used by lizards in a rapidly changing environment and ascertained the number of parasitic ticks found throughout the reptile’s active season. We conducted telemetry research on a dynamically developing housing estate located on the outskirts of the city of Zielona Góra (western Poland) in 2016-2017. We obtained data from 16 adult lizards, from which we collected 2529 ticks. Using generalized linear models (GLMs), we determined the relationships among the number of transmitted parasites, size of occupied areas (minimum convex polygon, MCP), the weight of lizards, and sex of lizards. Results indicated that the number of ticks was negatively correlated with lizard body mass, but positively correlated with home range. Sex was not significantly associated with the number of ticks. Additionally, the parasite load was lower during the lizard’s non-breeding season than during the breeding season and was lower for males than for females during the non-breeding season. Males have larger home ranges than females.

×

Open sand habitats in Sweden has been declining for the past century and this is mirrored by the increasing fragmentation and attenuation of species bound to these habitats. Many threatened species coexist in the same habitats as sand lizards, habitats best described as warm sites with a long continuity. Often with a sand-based substrate and a mosaic landscape of heather Calluna vulgaris , herbs, and patches of grass. Generally, areas with open sand are one of the keys for species bound to these habitats considering many of the species use south-facing sand slopes as nesting sites since it holds a warmer microhabitat that is beneficial for incubation of eggs and thus is essential for the whole lifecycle. This study investigates four current sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) localities in the county of Skåne and compares them to four empty localities in Southern Halland with similar character. The data collected from the study sites were analyzed to see if there were any significant differences between the populated and empty localities and thus could give information if key structures in the habitat are missing . The result from the analysis clearly shows that both the study sites Vapnö and Långenäsudden have the key structures that are essential for the sand lizard and could be considered as suitable habitats for potential new sand lizard populations. Information about both recreational pressure and predator abundance in these study sites would be an essential step in the final evaluation of the adequacy of the habitat as a whole.

×

Terrestrial locomotion occurs via the hierarchical links between morphology, kinematics, force, and center-of-mass mechanics. In a phylogenetically broad sample of seven lizard species, we show that morphological variation drives kinematic variation, which, in turn, drives force variation. Species with short limbs use a short stride–high frequency strategy when running at steady-speed and to change speeds. This link between morphology and kinematics results in relatively small vertical forces during the support phase of the stride cycle. Conversely, species with long limbs use a long stride–low frequency strategy, resulting in large vertical forces during the support phase. In view of these findings, we suggest that limb length may predict locomotor energetics in lizards because energetics are largely determined by vertical forces and stride frequency. Additionally, we propose an energetic trade-off with both long- and short-limbed species paying the most energy to move, whereas intermediatelimbed species move using less energy. Finally, when these traits are mapped onto a lizard phylogeny, we show that locomotor functional morphology exhibits both deep phylogenetic effects and contemporary patterns of evolutionary convergence. Overall, the present study provides a foundation for testing hypotheses regarding the integration and evolution of functional traits in lizards and animals in general.

×

In this study, it was given the locality record of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) from Yeşilköy Village, Pazar District of Rize Province of Turkey. This new record revealed the second locality for L. agilis from the eastern Black Sea coast of Anatolia. The metric and meristic features of the adult, subadult and juvenile specimens were compared to the features of the specimens of the species, L. agilis in the literature.

×

The difference between phenotypic and genotypic differentiation of conspecific populations is commonly used for detecting natural selection. However, phenotypic variation integrates both genetic and nongenetic components, and this may lead researchers to false conclusions. To avoid bias, the analysis of the heritability of individual phenotypic characters is important, but the means are labor-intensive and require controlled crosses. In this paper, we tried to get around these difficulties by working with natural system comprised of the coexisting sexually reproducing lizard Darevskia portschinskii, and its daughter parthenogenetic form, Darevskia dahli. The excess of individual and between-population variation in the sexual form relative to the parthenogen was used as a measure of heritability of each of 21 scalation traits and principal components extracted from their analysis. We compared these data with microsatellite genotypes based on the analysis of five variable loci. We showed that D. portschinskii had higher individual and between-population phenotypic diversity than D. dahli. Phenotypic differences between populations of D. portschinskii (but not D. dahli) correlate with both the geographic distances and pairwise fixation indices based on the analysis of the genetic markers. This correlation substantially increased when, instead of the original phenotypic distances, the corrected Qst values are used to assess the heritability of the characters. A similar analysis pattern is recommended for various natural systems with coexisting sexually and asexually reproducing organisms.

×

A new, morphologically distinctive lacertid lizard of the genus Eremias (Rhabderemias) is described from the arid mountains of northwestern Balochistan Province in Pakistan. Eremias kakari sp. nov. has an isolated distribution and can be easily distinguished from all other species of mainly desert subgenus Rhabderemias (E. andersoni, E. cholistanica, E. fasciata, E. lineolata, E. pleskei, E. scripta, E. vermiculata). Apart from other differences, E. kakari sp. nov. can be distinguished from geographically close members of the subgenus Rhabderemias (E. cholistanica, E. fasciata, and E. scripta) by having a single row of subdigital lamellae and a complete row of lateral scales and hence three scales around the penultimate phalanx of 4th toe. The new species is morphologically (dorsal pattern) very similar to E. fasciata but can be distinguished from this species for having 22–26 subdigital lamellae under 4th toe, 48–55 dorsal scales across midbody, ventrals in 11–14 oblique longitudinal series across the belly, 17–21 femoral pores and 17–21 scales in the 9th–10th annulus posterior to the postcloacal granules. The new species is currently known only from the type locality situated in the Toba Kakar Range, near to Tanishpa village. However, we expect that Eremias kakari sp. nov. would have a broader range in northwestern Pakistan and southeastern Afghanistan. An identification key for the Pakistani Eremias, together with other remarks to the new species, is presented.

×

The occurrence of the European green lizard Lacerta viridis in Poland has been a controversial topic for many years. Currently, the species has regionally extinct or probably extinct status in Poland (EXP – Polish Red Book of Animals. Vertebrata). Occasionally, there are unconfirmed reports about ist presence in Poland. However, there are no data that unambiguously indicate natural occurrence of this species within Polish borders. In this article, we review historical and contemporary data on the occurrence of green lizard in Poland and discuss its conservation status.

×

Parent-offspring conflicts are widespread given that resources are often limited. Recent evidence has shown that availability of water can trigger such conflict during pregnancy in viviparous squamate species (lizards and snakes) and thus questions the role of water in the evolution of reproductive modes. Here, we examined the impact of water restriction during gravidity in the oviparous form of the bimodal common lizard (Zootoca vivipara), using a protocol previously used on the viviparous form. Females were captured in early gravidity from six populations along a 600 m altitudinal gradient to investigate whether environmental conditions (altitude, water access and temperature) exacerbate responses to water restriction. Females were significantly dehydrated after water restriction, irrespective of their reproductive status (gravid vs. non-reproductive), relative reproductive effort (relative clutch mass), and treatment timing (embryonic development stage). Female dehydration, together with reproductive performance, varied with altitude, probably due to long term acclimation or local adaptation. This moderate water-based intergenerational conflict in gravid females contrasts sharply with previous findings for the viviparous form, with implications to the evolutionary reversion from viviparity to oviparity. It is likely that oviparity constitutes a water-saving reproductive mode which might help mitigate intensive temperature-driven population extinctions at low altitudes.

×

Monfragüe National Park (Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain) is a protected area in central-western Iberia,including some of the best preserved primary Mediterranean vegetation. Legal protection dates back to 1979 (first as a Natural Park and then as a National Park), but knowledge about its reptile communities is so far limited to sparse records. In this paper we present an updated species list based on 521 records covering 163 1x1 km UTM grids in the study area, compiled in the period 2000-2019. We detected 20 native species, representing 71.4% of the reptile fauna in Extremadura and 35% of the ibero-balearic reptile fauna. Additionally, based on molecular analyses populations of the amphisbaenid genus Blanus in the study area are assigned to the oriental Iberian taxon, B. cinereus. The new records extend the known distribution of the different reptile species in the study area in 56 10x10 km UTM grids. Species presenting more restricted distributions in Monfragüe are Lacerta schreiberi (one 1x1 grid), Emys orbicularis, and Acanthodactylus erythrurus (four 10x10 grids each).

×

Phenotypic evolution can cause either divergent or convergent phenotypic patterns. Even adaptation to the same environment may result in divergence of some elements of phenotype, whereas for other morphological traits it could cause phenotypic convergence. We hypothesize that at least some phenotypic characters diverge monotonically, hence they evolve irreversibly even in very closely related species, and this happens in spite of multiple convergent adaptive patterns. We studied the evolution of phenotype in 13 closely related Caucasian rock lizards (Darevskia), whose phylogenetic relationships are well known. We used head shape and the outlines of three important scales, using geometric morphometrics. We studied the association of the overall head shape, individual principal components of head shape and scale outlines with four predictors: phylogeny, habitat, sex and size. The overall head shape was not correlated with any of these predictors, whereas some principal components were correlated with habitat or phylogeny. Habitat type explained the highest fraction of variation in head shape and anal scale area. The relatedness inferred from the components of phenotype not correlated with habitat was congruent with the phylogenetic tree inferred from molecular data. Although adaptation to local environments may obscure the phylogenetic signal present in phenotype, there are components of phenotype whose evolution is irreversible

×

The purpose of this study is to describe, for the LIPU Castel di Guido Oasis, within the Castel di Guido Farm, on the Roman coast, the different spatial distribution of the different species of reptiles that coexist in the area. The work also defines correlations between the presence of animals and the various environmental and vegetation types present. In the study area, Testudo hermanni is a species that has the feeding areas, as well as the deposition areas, in the prairies adjacent the plant formation of the Mediterranean maquis(within 5 meters). Hemidactylus turcicus and Tarentola mauritanica seem to have a localization exclusively in the context of anthropic structures. Chalcides chalcides and Podarcis siculus appear to be confined to prairie areas, while Podarcis muralis is associated with the presence of trees of high-trunk plant associations. For Lacerta bilineata, a correspondence is outlined for the areas with arboreal shrubby vegetation, especially close to more humid habitats. Among the snakes Hierophis viridiflavus appears to be an ubiquitous species, with the frequentation of different habitats in the same percentage; more localized appear Vipera aspis and Elaphe quatuorlineata, the first more linked to wooded areas with the presence of bushy and shrubby vegetal coverings, the second is often associated with the simultaneous presence of forests and water collections. In general it is confirmed, as regards the snake community, the importance of ecotonal and transitional zones. The work also highlights how the study area is important for the conservation of reptile populations in the Roman area.

×

Papillomatous skin lesions from a green lizard (Lacerta viridis) were examined histologically, using electron microscopy and DNA was isolated from the lesions for herpes-viral DNA detection. Histology confirmed the lesions to be squamous epithelial papillomas. Using electron microscopy, no virus particles were detected. The specific sequence of herpesviral DNA-directed DNA polymerase (EC 2.7.7.7) was amplified using degenerate primers in a nested format. The 235-base-pair (bp) sequence was sequenced and compared with previously published DNA-directed DNA polymerase sequences from various reptile herpesviruses. The sequence from the green lizard showed significant similarity with sequence of fibropapilloma-associated turtle herpesviruses from sea turtles.

×

We studied the female reproductive cycle of a population of Ophisops elegans lizard from the herpetology collection of the Natural History Museum of the Lebanese University. Females collected during spring and summer showed vitellogenesis in their ovaries with oviposition occurring from May to July followed by a subsequent quiescent period. They produced up to two clutches. Mean clutch size was 3.2 ± 1, range 2-5 eggs. Clutch size was independent of female body size. The smallest female attaining sexual maturity had a snout vent length of 45 mm. Sexual maturity can be attained within one year of age. We found no significant difference in body size between female and male adult lizards. Seasonal variations in the reproductive activity of females were well synchronized with those of males.

×

Reliable information about the species composition of the fauna, way of life, abundance, distribution, and breeding features is not only the initial data for in-depth zoological, evolutionary and ecological research, but also the source for nature conservation activity based on the analysis of the state of wildlife resources. The European green lizard (Lacerta viridis Laurenti, 1768; Reptilia, Squamata) is one of the most vulnerable species of reptiles in the domestic herpetofauna. Therefore, it is the object of ecological research aimed at studying population structure, biotopic distribution, including within the protected natural areas and areas that are undergoing significant anthropogenic transformation. The work is based on field studies conducted in April - August 2018 and data from the regular phenological observations of the Dniester Canyon National Nature Park. The current status of the European green lizard population (Lacerta viridis Laurenti, 1768) within the territory of Dniester Canyon National Nature Park has been investigated. The abundance and spatial distribution of the species populations in different biotopes have been studiedon the basis of long-term phenological observations according to the program of the Chronicle of Nature of the National Nature Park and the authors’ research. The data of the species occurrence on the territory of the Park for the last six years is given. The abundance of the European green lizard populations under different biotopical conditions and the main factors influencing the studied parameters have been analyzed.

×

The Yale University Prehistoric Expedition to Nubia collected zoological specimens and archeological artifacts from Egypt and the surrounding region from 1962 to 1965. A total of 2486 herpetological specimens were collected during this time, representing 51 species and 13 families. Among the herpetological specimens is a series of 1232 Chalcides ocellatus and a recently described species of spitting cobra (Naja nubiae). Because most of the collection sites are now under Lake Nasser, most specimens represent extirpated populations. Some specimens are of taxa now considered endangered species in Egypt. Although the primary purpose of the YUPEN expedition was to preserve the rich anthropological history south of Aswan, the herpetological specimens that were preserved provide a valuable temporal snapshot into the historical ecosystems that were present in Lower Egypt.

×

Extensive karyological, allozyme and molecular genetic analyses of many parthenogenetic lizards confirm the origin of these species by hybridization. The concept of reticulate (hybridogeneous) speciation based on 3 interrelated phenomena such as hybridization-unisexuality-polyploidy has been elaborated. Cytogenetic and genetic variability and some regular trends in the evolution of hybrid unisexual species have been demonstrated. Cytogenetic investigations of unisexual-bisexual complex lizards of the genus Darevskia (formerly Lacerta) in the family Lacertidae suggest that some characteristics of their karyotypes play a role in the evolution of parthenogenesis. The maternal species with advanced w sex microchromosomes (Zw type) appeared to be successful in hybridization and produced the diploid unisexual species. The polyploid back-cross hybrids between said diploids and bisexual parent species exhibited many chromosome aberrations which were associated with their complete or partial sterility. In addition, the karyotype and the structure of mitotic and meiotic lampbrush chromosomes in 2 species and in some back-cross hybrids of this unisexual-bisexual complex have been examined here using molecular cytogenetic techniques. The genomic and functional disturbances, genomic interactions between homeologous chromosomes, and possibly both genomic imprinting and the presence of mobile elements are some cytogenetic mechanisms that increase genetic diversity in hybrid parthenogenetic species.

×

Morphologic diversity was studied in 129 species of lacertid lizards and their relationship with ecology by means of comparative analysis on seven linear morphometric measurements. Body size is the most important variable determining, a continuum among small bodied species and larger ones independently evolved through the lacertid phylogeny. This variable is strongly and positively correlated with the others masking the patterns of morphologic diversity. Multivariate analysis on size-adjusted variables show a negative covariation among relative tail and limb length. Remarkably, arboreal and semiarboreal species (Takydromus and the Equatorial African clade) appeared two times independently during the evolution of lacertids and are characterized by extremely long tails, and relatively long forelimbs in comparison with hindlimb length. The arboreal and glider lizard Holaspis with their short tail constitute the only exception. Another case of convergence is found by some species dwelling into dense vegetation or grass (Tropidosaura, Lacerta agilis, Takydromus amurensis or Zootoca) which have long tails and short limbs. On the opposite, species living in deserts, steppes or scrublands with scarce vegetation isolated into extended open areas have developed long hindlimbs and short forelimbs to achieve higher speed and maneuverability This is especially the case of Acanthodactylus and Eremias.

×

Biting performance is important for feeding, territory defense, and mating in many animals. While maximal bite force is a well-studied trait, other aspects of biting and their variatio depending on behavior are rarely considered. Here, we took an innovative approach, where (1) we quantified a novel trait, bite duration in lizards; (2) we examined variation across setups that simulate feeding and antagonistic behavior; and (3) we used F-matrix statistics to investigate how different functional components are optimized for ecological and social demands with respect to individual morphology. Our results did not show differences between the sexes in bite duration, but bite performance varied across experimental setups in males, suggesting a higher functional flexibility in this sex. The investigation of form-function associations revealed that trade-offs, facilitations, and one-to-one relationships are simultaneously involved in the morphological optimization of bite force and duration. Put together, our integrated analysis of two different components of bite performance—force and duration—demonstrates their importance for males in both ecological and social tasks. Our findings also suggest the existence of trade-offs in the morphological optimization of functional components, possibly due to physiological constraints on muscle composition, insertion, and orientation.

×

The penetration mechanism of Sphaerirostris picae cystacanths in intestinal wall of the paratenic host Lacerta agilis and characteristic features of inflammatory changes in host intestinal wall are examined. Inflammatory reaction is characterized by predomination of eosinophiles and comparatively small amount of neutrophiles. The reaction is much more pronounced when cystacanth is placed in parallel to the wall of intestine. Extensive edema, plethora, stases in vessels, and slight hemorrhages are observed in submucous membrane. Inflammatory infiltration is less pronounced in case of perpendicular orientation of the proboscis. The secretory glands in cystacanths were not found, secretion on the tegumental surface was not seen, as well as no morphological effect of lytic enzymes on host tissues. The penetration of host intestinal wall is shown to be mechanic, advancement of the cystacanth through the wall of intestine is due to alterations of partial evagination and invagination of the presoma in combination with contractions of the metasoma.

×

In spite of the importance of chemical signals (pheromones) in the reproductive behaviour of lizards, only a few studies have examined the role of specific chemical compounds as sexual signals. The secreted chemicals vary widely between species but whether this variation reflects phylogenetic or environmental differences remains unclear. Based on mass spectra, obtained by GC-MS, we found 40 lipophilic compounds in femoral gland secretions of male green lizards (Lacerta viridis), including several steroids, alpha-tocopherol, and esters of n-C16 to n-C20 carboxylic acids, and minor components such as alcohols between C12 and C20, squalene, three lactones and one ketone. We compared these chemicals with those previously found in other closely related green lizard species, and discussed how phylogenetical differences and/or environmental conditions could be responsible for the differential presence of chemicals in different lizard species.

×

The geographical position, mild climate, mountainous landscape, and habitat heterogeneity determine Bulgaria’s rich diversity of herpetofauna. Currently, 17 species of amphibians (20 subspecies) and 36 species of reptiles (45 subspecies) are known from Bulgaria. Due to its transitional position, Bulgaria lies at the southern or northern distribution limits of many species of amphibians and reptiles. Vertical distribution is presented for all species found in Bulgaria. The richest in terms of diversity and abundance are the areas below 400 m, where nearly 95 % of taxa occur. The geographical ranges of almost all amphibians and reptiles in Bulgaria are well-known, although on a local scale the information is often limited. Zoogeographical analysis demonstrates that amphibian species belong to nine chorotypes, of which the Eastern Mediterranean and the European chorotypes are represented with three species each. Out of the ten chorotypes recognized for the reptiles, 51.4 % of the species belong to the Eastern Mediterranean (25.7 %) and Turanian–Mediterranean (25.7 %) chorotypes. Only two subspecies are Bulgarian endemics (Salamandra salamandra beschkovi and Mediodactylus kotschyi rumelicus). Due to the high diversity and mosaic distribution of habitats in Bulgaria, the herpetofauna has a rather continuous occurrence and high relative abundance. Although 80 % of the Bulgarian herpetofauna is legally protected by the Biodiversity Protection Act (2002) and other conventions, some species are threatened through collection for trade or habitat changes due to construction. Several sites in the southern part of Bulgaria are very rich in herpetofauna (nine to ten species of amphibians and 19 to 21 species of reptiles).

×

A part of the COI mitochondrial barcoding gene was sequenced from seven species of diff erent taxonomical groups: Ambystoma mexicanum (Amphibia, Ambystomatidae), Darevskia lindholmi, Lacerta agilis exigua (Reptilia, Lacertidae), Erinaceus roumanicus (Mammalia, Erinaceidae), Macrobiotus sp. 1 and 2 (Eutardigrada, Macrobiotidae) and Cameraria ohridella (Insecta, Gracillariidae). Th e sequences were compared with available sequences from databases and positioned on phylogenetic trees when the taxa had not yet been sequenced. Th e presence of Mexican axolotls in herpetoculture in Ukraine was confi rmed. Th e partial COI genes of the Crimean rock lizard and an eastern sub-species of the sand lizard were sequenced. We demonstrated the presence of two tardigrade mitochondrial lineages of the Macrobiotus hufelandi group in the same sample from the Zeya Natural Reserve in the Far East: one was nearly identical to the Italian M. macrocalix, and the other one is similar to M. persimilis and M. vladimiri. We also confi rmed the presence of the invasive haplotype “A” of the horse chestnut leaf miner in Ukraine, in line with the hypothesized route of invasion from Central Europe.

×

The Versiliana Park hosts a varied plant and animal biodiversity. The herpetofauna of the Versiliana Park is represented by 3 Amphibian and 8 Reptile species: 3 Anurans (Bufo bufo, Hyla intermedia, Pelophylax esculentus complex), 1 allochtonous Chelonian (Trachemys scripta) and 7 Squamates (5 lizards, Tarentola mauritanica, Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis siculus, Anguis veronensis and 2 Snakes, Hierophis viridiflavus, Natrix helvetica). The presence of two further species, reported in the past (Lissotron vulgaris, Rana dalmatina), is to be confirmed.

×

The current paper reviews the species composition and distribution of 2 amphibian (Bufo viridis, Hyla arborea) and 7 reptile species (Cyrtopodion kotschyi, Lacerta viridis, Lacerta trilineata, Podarcis taurica, Podarcis muralis, Ablepharus kitaibelii, Coronella austriaca) inhabiting three protected territories in the town of Plovdiv. Some aspects of the species ’ ecology are discussed in relation to the urban environment and the recorded amphibians and reptiles are categorized in ecological groups according to their level of synanthropy. Species ’ zoogeographic characteristics, level of endemism, conservation significance and the basic conservation threats and problems in the studied protected territories are also discussed.

×

Vorarbeiten über Schädlingsfauna der Kriehtieren (Reptilien) in der Türkei -- Die Kriehtiere leben meistens auf dem Lande. Viele sind Insektenfresser. Zahlreiche Arten nehmen tierische und pflanzliche, oder ausschliesslich pflanzliche Nahrung zu sich. Ihre wirtschaftliche Schäden an Kulturpflanzen sind gelegentlich. Die besonderen Arten von Pflanzenschädlingen, die in der Türkei leben, sind noch nicht genugend untersucht. Darüber findet man heute sehr wenige und nur zerstreute Veröffentlichungen und Beobachtungen in der Hand. In dieser Vorarbeit sind die bisheute bekannten pflanzenschädliche Arten von Kriehtieren bzw. Eidechsen und Schildkröten, in ihren Verbreitungsgebieten und ihre Nährpflanzen zum erstenmale zusammengestellt. Selbstverstândlioh sind darüber weitere und vertiefte Beobachtungen erforderlich. -- Die Arten der Eidechsen: Agama stellio L. (Schleuderschwanz). Verbreitung: Anatolien, Ankara (Ebner 1919, Kerville 1939). Nährpflanzen: Die süssen Früchten wie Feigen, Pfirsiche, Zuckermelonen, und andere Früohte, Salate, Lattichsalate.,- Agama stellio stellio L. Verbreitung: Süd - und west Türkei, Amasya, Nigde, Diyarbakir, Kayseri, Çanakkale (Bodenheimer 1946 und andere). Nährpflanzen: Wie bei Agama stellio L. -- Agama ruderata Oliv. (Ankara, Kerville 1939), Agama ruderata ruderata Oliv. Ankara, Eregli (Konya), Mardin, Nusaybin, Gaziantep und Malatya (Bodenheimer 1946), Eine Probe in Eregli (Konya) wurde vom Verfasser gefunden. Nährpflanzen: Noch nicht festgestellt, vielleicht wie bei Agama stellio L. -- Lacerta viridis Laur. var. major D. und B. (Srnaragdeidechse). Verbreitung: Westanatolien, andere Fundorte sind nicht bekannt. Nährpflanzen: Weintrauben, Feigen, Kirchen und andere süsse Früchten. Note: Noch mehrere Lacerta Arten wurden in der Türkei gefunden, ob sie pflanzliche Nahrung zu sich nehmen oder nicht, ist unklar. -- Die Arten der Schildkröten. Testudo graeca L. (Grichische Schildkröte). Verbreitung: Fast in allen Geblieten der Türkei. Nährpflanzen: Steppenpflanzen, junges Getreide - Baumwolle -Luzerne - Pflanzen, Gemüsen, Weintrauben, Blätter und Juruge Triebe von vielen jungen Pflanzen. -- Emys orbicularis L. (Surnpf-oder Europäische Schildkröte). Verbreuitung: Ankara (Kerville 1939), Manisa, Bursa, Kayseri, Eski¬sehir, Adapazari, Turhal (Bodenheimer 1946 und andere). Nährpflanzen: Wedntrauben, Zucker-und Wassermelonen. - Note: Noch andere Arten der Schâldknöten leben auch in der Türkei, aber ihre Nahrung ist nicht bekannt.

×

Mediterranean islands have complex reptile assemblages, but little is known about the factors that determine their organization. In this study, the structure of as-semblages of Squamata was evaluated based on their species richness and two measures of phylogenetic diversity (variability and clustering). I evaluated the com-position of the assemblages comparing distinct biogeographic subregions within the Mediterranean: Adriatic, Aegean, Balearic, Corsica–Sardinia, Crete, Gulf of Gabés, Ionian Sea, Ligurian Sea, Malta, Sicily, and Tyrrhenian Sea. The effect of island en-vironments and geographical isolation on the diversity metrics was assessed using generalized linear models. The analyses indicated that species richness was mostly influenced by island area and geographical isolation. Assemblages on smaller islands were poorer in species and phylogenetically dispersed, possibly as an effect of inter-specific competition. The species composition of the assemblages was determined by similar environmental drivers within the biogeographic subregions, including is-land area, island elevation, geographical isolation, and aridity. In several subregions, significant patterns of phylogenetic attraction were found in species co-occurrences, caused by the limits imposed by the island size on large predatory species

×

Revealing cryptic diversity constitutes the backbone of the future identification and description of a new lineage. For the genus Ophisops (Lacertidae), previous studies indicated that this genus is characterized by cryptic diversity as three clades were obtained for O. elegans and O. occidentalis that do not fit the classical systematics. Notably, we were interested to delineate the distribution range of the two clades of O. elegans described in Iran. We sequenced 65 individuals of Ophisops mainly from northwestern Iran for one mitochondrial (cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 [COI]; 686 base pairs [bp]) and three nuclear genes (R35, MC1R, and PKM2; 1,857 bp). Phylogeographic analysis from mitochondrial and nuclear genes confirmed that Iranian samples belong to two major haplogroups (divergence of 13% for COI) that are also split into several subclades (divergence of 6%–10% for COI), revealing an unsuspected diversity within Iranian Ophisops. Divergence dating and biogeographi- cal analysis indicated that most clades arose through vicariance and dispersal pro- cesses during the Mio-Pliocene (between 7.2 and 1 Myr). However, a scenario of expansion/regression is also advocated for explaining the distribution and contact between three subclades in North Iran. We propose to recognize the three major clades as three potential candidate species. Moreover, we found some correspond- ence between several phylogenetic clades or subclades identified and six of the nine subspecies described for O. elegans. Both species and subspecies delimitation and identification would deserve additional investigations (including morphology, ecol- ogy, biogeography, and behavior) to fulfill the conditions of integrative taxonomy.

×

Eighty-two green lizards, Lacerta viridis (Laurenti, 1768), from different locations of Bursa, Turkey, were examined for helminths. Two species of Cestoda, Mesocestoides sp. (as tetrathyridium) and Oochoristica tuberculata, and 4 species of Nematoda, Oswaldocruzia filiformis, Skrjabinelazia hoffmanni, Skrjabinelazia taurica, and Skrjabinodon medinae, were found. Lacerta viridis is parasitized by generalist helminths that also infect other lizards. Parasite lists for other Turkish lacertid lizards are given.