Abstract

SUAREZ-VARON, Gabriel et al. Variation of the embryonic stage of Basiliscus vittatus (Squamata: Corytophanidae) at oviposition. Rev. Mex. Biodiv. [online]. 2021, vol.92, e923795.  Epub Mar 07, 2022. ISSN 2007-8706.  https://doi.org/10.22201/ib.20078706e.2021.92.3795.

In oviparous lizards there is a frequent interval in the embryonic development that the eggs reach at the time of oviposition between stage 26 and 33. This variation has been related to the origin of viviparity and allowing the exploration of the effects of specific experimental conditions on embryonic development after oviposition. However, for most species of lizards the embryonic stage at oviposition is unknown. The present study details for first time in Corytophanidae the embryonic stage at oviposition of Basiliscus vittatus. Gravid females were collected to obtain recently oviposited clutches. From each clutch, a random egg was dissected in order to determine the embryonic stage at oviposition, in addition to measuring morphometric variables of the female and the eggs. Our results show that in B. vittatus, females oviposit in 4 embryonic stages: 29 to 32; however, there is a preference for ovipositing in intermediate embryonic stages (stages 30 and 31). Of the different variables recorded, the stages at oviposition are associated with the maximum length of the egg. The stage at oviposition of B. vittatus seems to be related to physiological and morphological factors of the females, as well as their foraging strategy.

Keywords : Corytophanidae; Development; Embryonic stage; Oviposition.

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