text:
Pedioplanis FITZINGER, 1843
Kein Taxon Filter
AcanthodactylusAdolfusAlgyroidesAnatololacertaApathyaArchaeolacertaAtlantolacertaAustralolacertaCongolacertaDalmatolacertaDarevskiaDinarolacertaEremiasGallotiaGastropholisHeliobolusHellenolacertaHolaspisIberolacertaIchnotropisIranolacertaLacertaLatastiaMerolesMesalinaNucrasOmanosauraOphisopsParvilacertaPedioplanisPhilochortusPhoenicolacertaPodarcisPoromeraPsammodromusPseuderemiasTakydromusTeiraTimonTropidosauraVhembelacertaZootoca
keinbenguellensisbrevicepsburchelligaerdesihaackeihuntleyihusabensisinornatalaticepslineoocellatanamaquensisrubensundata
AG Lacertiden (1995) - Haltungsrichtlinien für Lacertiden. - AG Lacertiden, 1995: 1-8.
Ziel dieser Haltungsrichtlinie ist die Zusammenstellung der speziellen Ansprüche der einzelnen Arten an die Haltungsbedingungen im Terrarium (ohne Berücksichtigung der Verfügbarkeit aufgrund gesetzlicher Schutzbestimmungen). Terrarianer-Grundwissen (dazu gehört auch die Kenntnis der technischen Realisierungsmöglichkewiten) soll hier nicht vermittelt werden; damit befaßt sich in ausreichendem Maße die terrarienkundliche Fachliteratur. Um die Liste in endlicher Länge zu halten, wurden nur die Nominatformen berücksichtigt; Unterarten besiedeln z.T. andere Lebensräume und können deshalb in ihren Bedürfnissen mehr oder weniger abweichen. Der verantwortungsvolle Terrarianer wird sich jedoch vor der Anschaffung von Tieren ohnehin genau über deren Ansprüche informieren. Die Angaben entsprechen dem derzeitigen Kenntnisstand und beruhen in erster Linie auf Literaturrecherchen, z.T. ergänzt oder bestätigt durch persönliche Erfahrungen. Acanthodactylus arabicus, A. aureus, A. bedriagai, A. blanci, A. blanfordii, A. boskianus, A. boueti, A. busacki, A. cantoris, A. dumerili, A. erythrurus, A. felicis, A. gongrorhynchatus, A. grandis, A. guineensis, A. haasi, A. longipes, A. maculatus, A. masirae, A. micropholis, A. opheodurus, A. orientalis, A. pardalis, A. robustus, A. savignyi, A. schmidti, A. schreiberi, A. scutellatus, A. spinicauda, A. tilburyi, A: tristrami, A. yemenicus, Adolfus africanus, A. alleni, A. jacksoni, A. vauereselli, Algyroides fitzingeri, A. marchi, A. moreoticus, A. nigropunctatus, Australolacerta australis, A. rupicola, Eremias (s.str.) afghanistanica, E. lalezharica, E. nikolskii, E. persica, E. regeli, E. strauchi, E. suphani, E. velox, Eremias) (Ommateremias) arguta, E. aria, E. intermedia, E. nigrocellata, Eremias (Pareremias) argus, E. brenchleyi, E. buechneri, E. multiocellata, E. przewalskii, E. quadrifrons, Eremias (Rhabderemias) andersoni, E. fasciata, E. lineolata, E. pleskei, E. scripta, E. vermiculata, Eremias (Scapteira) acutirostris, E. grammica, Eremias (inc. sed.) ercolinii, Gallotia atlantica, G. galloti, G. simonyi, G. stehlini, Gastropholis echinata, G. prasina, G. tropidopholis, G. vittata, Heliobolus lugubris, H. neumanni, H. nitida, H. spekii, Holaspis guentheri, Ichnotropis bivittata, I. capensis, I. chapini, I. grandiceps, I. microlepidota, I. squamulosa, I. tanganicana, Lacerta (s.str.) agilis, L. bilineata, L. media, L. pamphylica, L. schreiberi, L. strigata, L. trilineata, L. viridis, Lacerta (Apathya) cappadocica, Lacerta (Apythya s.l.) alpina, L. armeniaca, L. bendimahiensis, L. caucasica, L. carkorum, L. dahli, L. defilippi, L. derjugini, L. mixta, L. parvula, L. portschinskii, L. praticola, L. raddei, L. rostombekovi, L. rudis, L. sapphirina, L. saxicola, L. unisexualis, L. uzzelli, L. valentini, Lacerta (Archaeolacerta) aurelioi, L. bedriagae, L. bonnali, L. horvathi, L. monticola, L. mosorensis, L. oxycephala, Lacerta (Omanosaura) cyanurus, L. jayakari, Lacerta (Timon) lepida, L. pater, L. princeps, Lacerta (Zootoca) vivipara, Lacerta (inc. sed.) anatolica, L. andreanskyi, L. brandtii, L. chlorogaster, L. danfordi, L. frasii, L. graeca, L. kulzeri, L. laevis, L. mostoufii, L. oertzeni, L. parva, Latastia boscai, L. carinata, L. cherchii, L. doriai, L. johnstonii, L. lanzai, L. longicaudata, L. ornata, L. siebenrocki, L. taylori, Meroles anchietae, M. ctenodactylus, M. cuneirostris, M. knoxii, M. micropholidotus, M. reticulatus, M. suborbitalis, Mesalina adramitana, M. ayunensis, M. balfouri, M. brevirostris, M. guttulata, M. martini, M. olivieri, M. pasteuri, M. rubropunctata, M. simoni, M. watsonana, Nucras boulengeri, N. caesicaudata, N. intertexta, N. lalandii, N. scalaris, N. taeniolata, N. tessellata, Ophisops beddomii, O. elbaensis, O. elegans, O. jerdonii, O. leschenaultii, O. microlepis, O. minor, O. occidentalis, Pedioplanis benguelensis, P. breviceps, P. burchelli, P. gaerdesi, P. husabensis, P. laticeps, P. lineoocellata, P. namaquensis, P. rubens, P. undata, Philochortus hardeggeri, P. intermedius, P. lhotei, P. neumanni, P. phillipsi, P. spinalis, P. zolii, Podarcis (s.str.) bocagei, P. erhardii, P. filfolensis, P. gaigeae, P. hispanica, P. lilfordi, P. melisellensis, P. milensis, P. muralis, P. peloponnesiaca, P. pityusensis, P. raffonei, P. sicula, P. taurica, P. tiliguerta, P. wagleriana, Podarcis (Teira) dugesii, P. perspicillata, Poromera fordii, Psammodromus algirus, P. blanci, P. hispanicus, P. microdactylus, Pseuderemias brenneri, P. erythrosticta, P. mucronata, P. savagei, P. septemstriata, P. smithii, P. striata, Takydromus amurensis, T. dorsalis, T. formosanus, T. haughtonianus, T. hsuehshanensis, T. intermedius, T. khasiensis, T. kuehnei, T. sauteri, T. septentrionalis, T. sexlineatus, T. smaragdinus, T. stejnegeri, T. sylvaticus, T. tachydromoides, T. wolteri, Tropidosaura cottrelli, T. essexi, T. gularis, T. montana.
Alexander, G. & Marais, J. (2007) - A Guide to the Reptiles of Southern Africa - Struik publishers, Cape Town.
Alexander, G.J. & Horne, D. & Hanrahan, S.A. (2002) - An evaluation of the effects of deltamethrin on two non-target lizard species in the Karoo, South Africa. - Journal of Arid Environments, 50 (1): 121-133.
We measured the effects of deltamethrin, a pyrethroid insecticide, on individuals of two lizard species,Meroles suborbitalis and Pedioplanis namaquensis, in enclosures under controlled conditions, and under field conditions. We found significant effects on lizard mortality rates in the enclosure experiments, with most lizards dying within two months of treatment. Our field-based investigation, conducted over a five-month period, revealed significant reductions in abundance of M. suborbitalis (reduced by 52%) and P. namaquensis, (reduced by 72%) one and four weeks after spraying with deltamethrin. At 18 weeks after spraying there was no longer a significant difference in abundance measures between treatment and control plots, due to the invasion of the plots by juveniles.
Anonymous (2002) - Opinion 1992 (Case 3085) Lacerta undata A. Smith 1838 (currently Pedioplanis undata; Reptilia, Sauria): specific name conserved by the designation of a neotype. - Bulletin of Zoological Nomenclature 59 (1): 60.
Arnold, E.N. (1986) - The hemipenis of lacertid lizards (Reptilia:Lacertidae): structure, variation and systematic implications. - Journal of Natural History, London, 20: 1221-1257.
The basic anatomy of the lacertid hemipenis (intromittent organ) and methods for its investigation are described. In many members of the Lacertidae, the hemipenis has a structure quite unlike that of other squamate reptiles: the distal lobes of the retracted organ are complexly folded and there is a well-defined supporting structure of dense connective tissue, the armature. This incorporates blood sinuses and has an intramuscular portion embedded in the m. retractor penis magnus and two club-shaped bodies, the clavulae, that support the lobes in the erect organ. Unarmatured hemipenes occur in some lacertids and, like those of other squamates, possess sac-like lobes in the retracted state, but they are singular in having the lobes invested by the m. retractor penis magnus. It is argued that many of these apparently primitive hemipenes are in fact secondary derivatives of the armatured type. There is considerable inter-specific variation in hemipenial structure which is described systematically. In some cases this involves differences in size, asymmetry and simplification, which may arise as physical isolating mechanisms and is useful in distinguishing otherwise very similar species, particularly in the genus Mesalina (p. 1253). Other shared derived hemipenial features provide useful information about relationships between species and higher taxa and a summary of the hypotheses that they support is given (p. 1254).
Arnold, E.N. (1986) - Why copulatory organs provide so many useful taxonomic characters: the origin and maintenance of hemipenial differences in lacertid lizards. - Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 29 (4): 263-281.
The structure of copulatory organs is used very widely in systematics, both for differentiating species and for working out relationships. Differences between taxa may arise from a variety of sources, including non-homology, differences in other parts of the animal, direct selection on copulatory organs, development of physical isolating mechanisms and pleiotropic events. Physical isolating mechanisms seem likely to account for the abrupt differences, involving size, asymmetry and simplifications, that are useful in distinguishing very similar lacertid species. Although these differences usually seem to arise at the end of a speciation event they can simultaneously be the initiating mechanism in a second one. Copulatory organs appear to have high inherent stability, probably resulting from frequent location in strongly homoeostatic environments, single function, insensitivity to niche shift and inertia due to the need to conform to the genitalia of the opposite sex. This stability may be overridden at times by direct selection on the organs themselves or pleiotropic events. Such changes tend to be retained because efficiency in copulation depends not on any absolute genital architecture but on close conformity of the organs. It is the combination of relative stability and tangible input of varied change, which tends to be retained, that so often makes these structures good indicators of relationship.
Arnold, E.N. (1990) - Why do Morphological Phylogenies Vary in Quality? An Investigation Based on the Comparative History of Lizard Clades. - Proceedings of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological Sciences, 240 (1297): 135-172.
Phylogenies based on morphology vary considerably in their quality: some are robust and explicit with little conflict in the data set, whereas others are far more tenuous, with much conflict and many possible alternatives. The main primary reasons for untrue or inexplicit morphological phylogenies are: not enough characters developed between branching points, uncertain character polarity, poorly differentiated character states, homoplasy caused by parallelism or reversal, and extinction, which may remove species entirely from consideration and can make originally conflicting data sets misleadingly compatible, increasing congruence at the expense of truth. Extinction differs from other confounding factors in not being apparent either in the data set or in subsequent analysis. One possibility is that variation in the quality of morphological phylogenies has resulted from exposure to different ecological situations. To investigate this, it is necessary to compare the histories of the clades concerned. In the case of explicit morphological phylogenies, ecological and behavioural data can be integrated with them and it may then be possible to decide whether morphological characters are likely to have been elicited by the environments through which the clade has passed. The credibility of such results depends not only on the phylogeny being robust but also on its detailed topology: a pectinate phylogeny will often allow more certain and more explicit statements to be made about historical events. In the case of poor phylogenies, it is not possible to produce detailed histories, but they can be compared with robust phylogenies in the range of ecological situations occupied, and whether they occupy novel situations in comparison with their outgroups. LeQuesne testing can give information about niche homoplasy, and it may also be possible to see if morphological features are functionally associated with ecological parameters, even if the direction of change is unknown. Examination of the robust and explicit phylogeny of the semaphore geckoes (Pristurus) suggests that its quality does stem from a variety of environmental factors. The group has progressed along an ecological continuum, passing through a series of increasingly severe niches that appear to have elicited many morphological changes. The fact that niches are progressively filled reduces the likelihood of species reinvading a previous one with related character reversal. Because the niches of advanced Pristurus are virtually unique within the Gekkonidae the morphological changes produced are also very rare and therefore easy to polarize. Ecological changes on the main stem of the phylogeny are abrupt and associated character states consequently well differentiated. The small geographical distribution of the group reduces the chance of different forms entering the same niche and developing morphological parallelisms. Many species are represented because there are many refuge areas within the geographical distribution of Pristurus and also because the fact that niches are well differentiated reduces the chance of extinction by species competition. Examination of ten other lizard clades, mainly in the Lacertidae, shows that the historical features noted in Pristurus also occur in other groups with robust and explicit morphological phylogenies, such as Meroles and Gastropholis. On the other hand, they are often absent in assemblages where phylogenetic hypotheses based on anatomy are poorly supported or equivocal, for example Podarcis and Pedioplanis. The amount of alteration of genital features is not as closely associated with environmental factors as in many other morphological characters, possibly because ecological shifts do not affect them so directly and because they have their own special causes of change. This partial independence from the environmental factors that appear to control many characters means that genital features may enable some phylogeny reconstruction to be done, even when other systems are unhelpful. There is no evidence among the studied clades that groups with poor morphological phylogenies have inherent general constraints on the development and maintenance of new structural features. It seems that the quality of morphological phylogenies may give some indication of the kinds of history groups have had. Clearly, if the variety of ways in which evolution proceeds is to be understood, groups with both good and bad morphological phylogenies must be investigated.
Arnold, E.N. (1991) - Relationships of the South African lizards assigned to Aporosaura, Meroles and Pedioplanis (Reptilia: Lacertidae). - Journal of Natural History, London, 25: 783-807.
Phylogenetic analyses, using parsimony and compatibility methods, were carried out on the South African lacertid lizards assigned in recent times to Aporosaura, Meroles and Pedioplanis. These were based on 80 primary and 102 binary morphological characters which were drawn from osteology, external features, muscles, kidneys and reproductive systems. Contrary to some previous interpretations, there are two well-defined clades: Meroles plus Aporosaura, and Pedioplanis; these form successive branches on the main stem of the phylogeny of advanced lacertids. The clades show considerable parallel development of derived features, presumably because they had very similar initial genetic potential. Relationships within the two groups are shown on p. 800 and p. 802. As Aporosaura anchietae is sister taxon to a clade consisting of three of the seven species of Meroles, it has been transferred to that genus. Relationships in Meroles-Aporosaura are very well substantiated, in contrast to the situation in Pedioplanis. This difference appears to be related to the different kinds of evolutionary history that the two groups have had. The Meroles-Aporosaura clade has spread progressively into increasingly stringent and singular aeolian sand environments which have elicited the production of many, often unique, derived character states related to the functional problems of survival in such situations. As these states are rarely duplicated in outgroups, the characters concerned are easily polarized. This, together with their abundance, means that a robust basis for phylogenetic inference is available. In contrast, Pedioplanis exhibits relatively limited ecological radiation of a kind that also occurs in related groups, and the functionally related derived states elicited are fewer and less distinctive. In fact, production of a phylogeny for Pedioplanis is very dependent on genital characters which seem to be substantially independent of the main ecological changes that have occurred in the genus. The premaxilla is embraced dorsally by the anterior processes of the maxillae in most lacertids, but the processes are less extensive in two sister species of Pedioplanis, P. burchelli and P. laticeps. This modified condition also occurs in the genera Eremias, Acanthodactylus, Mesalina and Ophisops, which together constitute a clade that forms the sister group of Pedioplanis. The modification provides extra evidence for the holophyly of the clade, even though presence in some Pedioplanis shows it to be homoplasious.
Arnold, E.N. (2002) - History and function of scale microornamentation in lacertid lizards. - Journal of Morphology, 252 (2): 145-169.
Differences in surface structure (ober- hautchen) of body scales of lacertid lizards involve cell size, shape and surface profile, presence or absence of fine pitting, form of cell margins, and the occurrence of longitudinal ridges and pustular projections. Phylogenetic information indicates that the primitive pattern involved narrow strap-shaped cells, with low posteriorly overlapping edges and relatively smooth surfaces. Deviations from this condition produce a more sculptured surface and have developed many times, although subsequent overt reversals are uncommon. Like variations in scale shape, different patterns of dorsal body microornamentation appear to confer different and conflicting performance advantages. The primitive pattern may reduce friction during locomotion and also enhances dirt shedding, especially in ground-dwelling forms from moist habitats. However, this smooth microornamentation generates shine that may compromise cryptic coloration, especially when scales are large. Many derived features show correlation with such large scales and appear to suppress shine. They occur most frequently in forms from dry habitats or forms that climb in vegetation away from the ground, situations where dirt adhesion is less of a problem. Microornamentation differences involving other parts of the body and other squamate groups tend to corroborate this functional interpretation. Microornamentation features can develop on lineages in different orders and appear to act additively in reducing shine. In some cases different combinations may be optimal solutions in particular environments, but lineage effects, such as limited reversibility and different developmental proclivities, may also be important in their genesis. The fine pits often found on cell surfaces are unconnected with shine reduction, as they are smaller than the wavelengths of most visible light.
Arribas, O.J. (2012) - The Ultraviolet Photography of Nature: Techniques, Material and (especially) Lacertini results - Butlletí de la Societat Catalana d'Herpetologia, Barcelona, 20: 72-114.
In this paper we deal on the ultraviolet color (invisible to us): where we can find it, the capability of animals to see it and the advantages that this color perception offers to them. As the simplest way to detect it is the photography, we describe and review how to photograph the UV, as a result of 15 years of amateur experience, searching and testing nearly in complete blindness due to the lack of practical information about "how to do it". We describe the different kinds of photography (chemical and digital); the cameras and objectives suitable (both astronomically expensive ones and cheap options); what are the best characteristics that the objectives should have for this purpose; the films suitable for their use in chemical photography; the different filters (current or discontinued) manufactured along the years; and the subtle combinations among the different materials to obtain pure UV photographs. This kind of scientific photography is mainly used in forensics, forgery detection, art dermatology and less in Natural History, despite the fact that a great part of animals see this color and use it in important questions of their biology as the social behavior, mate choice or the food search.
Auerbach, R.D. (1985) - The Reptiles of Gaborone. A Guide to the Reptiles of the South-Eastern Hardveld of Botswana. - The Botswana Book Centre, Gaborone. 48 pp.
Auerbach, R.D. (1986) - First steps in Setswana herpetology. - Botswana Notes and Records Volume, 18: 71-90.
Baard, E.H.W. (1987) - Pedioplanis lineoocellata (Ocellated Sand lizard): Reproduction. - Journal of the Herpetological Association of Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa, 33: 34-35.
Baeckens, S. & Edwards, S. & Huyghe, K. & Van Damme, R. (2015) - Chemical signalling in lizards: an interspecific comparison of femoral pore numbers in Lacertidae. - Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 114 (1): 44-57.
Animals communicate via a variety of sensory channels and signals. Studies on acoustic and visual communication systems suggest that differences in the physical environment contribute to the variety of signalling behaviour, with species investing in those signals that are transmitted best under the local conditions. Whether or not environmental tuning also occurs in chemical communication systems has received much less attention. In the present study, we examined the effect of several aspects of the physical environment on the chemical communication system of lacertid lizards (family Lacertidae). The numbers of femoral pores are used as a proxy reflecting how much a particular species invests in and relies upon chemical signalling. Femoral pores are specialized epidermal structures that function as a secretion channel for the waxy substance produced by glands. In some lacertid species, the secretion carries infochemicals that play an important role in social communication. The number of femoral pores varies considerably among species. We have compiled data on femoral pore numbers for 162 species and tested for the effects of climate and substrate use. After correcting for body size and taking the phylogenetic relationships among the species into account, we found no effect of climate conditions or latitude on species pore numbers. Substrate use did affect pore numbers: shrub-climbing species tended to have fewer femoral pores than species inhabiting other substrates.
Balletto, E. (1968) - Contributo alla Biogeografia della Somalia. - Bollettino dei Musei e Degli Istituti Biologici dell`Università di Genova, 26: 192-280.
Bates, M.F. (1991) - New distribution records for amphibians and reptiles from the Cape Province, South Africa. - Journal of the Herpetological Association of Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa, 39 : 14-18.
New and additional distribution records are given for 12 amphibian, 25 lizard, one amphisbaenian, and five snake taxa from the Cape Province, South Africa. Some of the new records represent large range extensions, whereas others fill in gaps or confirm the occurrence of taxa in the region.
Bates, M.F. (2011) - Exceptional Contribution to African Herpetology: Wulf Haacke. - African Herp News, Bloemfontein, South Africa, 53: 11-13
Bates, M.F. & Branch, W.R. & Bauer, A.M. & Burger, M. & Marais, J. & Alexander, G.J. & Villiers, M.S. de (eds.) (2014) - Atlas and Red List of the Reptiles of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. - Suricata 1. South African National Biodiversity Institute. Pretoria. 485 pp.
Bauer, A.M. & Günther, R. (1995) - An annotated type catalogue of the lacertids (Reptilia: Lacertidae) in the Zoological Museum, Berlin. - Mitteilungen aus dem Zoologischen Museum in Berlin, 71: 37-62.
A complete catalogue is provided for the type specimens of lacertid lizards in the herpetological collection of the Zoological Museum, Berlin, as of December, 1993. The collection contains a total of 514 type specimens, representing 63 taxa, of which 42 are currently regarded as valid at the specific or subspecific level. Types representing an additional four taxa appear to have been lost from the collection. The collections are especially rich in African lacertid types and in historically significant specimens collected early in the Nineteenth Century by Pallas, Eversmann, and Hemprich & Ehrenberg. Also present are the type series of many subspecies of Podarcis lilfordi and P. pityusensis described by Eisentraut.
Bauer, A.M. & Kennedy, A.M. & Lewis, P.J. & Thies, M.L. & Gabadirwe, M. (2009) - The herpetofauna of Koanaka South and adjacent regions, Ngamiland, Botswana. - Herpetological Bulletin, 107: 16-26.
The Koanaka South locality of western Ngamiland, Botswana, is a Plio-Pleistocene cave deposit. While this deposit has produced numerous reptile and amphibian fossils, a lack of comparative osteological material from the region has hampered taxonomic diagnosis, particularly below the level of family. In addition, the lack of a published account of the modern herpetofauna from the area prevents documenting how the reptile and amphibian faunas have changed over the last two million years. A collecting trip to Koanaka South in the winter dry season (19–30 June 2008) resulted in the collection of 38 specimens of nine species belonging to seven squamate families (Agamidae, Chamaeleonidae, Gekkonidae, Lacertidae, Scincidae, Viperidae). Two additional species, the gekkonid Ptenopus garrulous and the elapid snake Dendroaspis polylepis are documented from sound and sight records, respectively, and one additional lacertid, Heliobolus lugubris, is vouchered by older museum material. No amphibians were observed during the survey. Nine taxa are explicitly reported from the Koanaka Hills or in quarter degree square 2021 Aa for the first time and a range extension and size record are reported for Pedioplanis namaquensis and Ichnotropis squamulosa, respectively. Based on collections made in the surrounding quarter degree square (2021 Aa), as well as published range maps, we provide a list of 39 additional reptiles and amphibians expected, but not yet documented, in the vicinity of Koanaka South.
Bauer, A.M. & Shea, G. (2006) - Pedioplanis inornata (Roux, 1907) Plain Sand Lizard. Maximum size. - African Herp News, Bloemfontein, South Africa, 40: 19.
Bennett, A.F. & Huey, R.B. & John-Alder, H. (1984) - Physiological correlates of natural activity and locomotor capacity in two species of lacertid lizards. - Journal of Comparative Physiology B, Berlin, 154 (2): 113-118.
1. Physiological factors relating to activity metabolism were measured in two species of African lacertid lizards that differ greatly in natural foraging patterns: Eremias lineoocellnta, a sitandwait predator, and E. lugubris, a widely foraging animal. 2. Maximal oxygen consumption at 37 `C is greater in E. lugubris [3.22 ml O,/(g x h)] than in E. lineoocellata [2.49 ml 02/(g x h)]. 3. Anaerobic scope and capacity at 37 `C are greater in E. lineoocellata [2.56 mg lactate/(g x min) and 1.81 mg lactate/g] than in E. lugubris [2.12 mg lactate/(g x min) and 1.40 mg lactatelg]. 4. Relative heart mass and hematocrit are greater in E. lugubris than in E. lineoocellata (0.28% and 0.24% body mass; 30.1 and 24.4, respectively). 5. No significant interspecific differences occur in hind limb muscle mass as a percentage of body mass or in myoglobin concentration, citrate synthase or myofibrillar ATPase activity of hind limb skeletal muscle. 6. No significant interspecific differences occur in isometric contractile properties (twitch and tetanic tension, twitch rise time and half-relaxation time, and fatigue response to tetanic stimulation) of the iliofibularis muscle. 7. Organismal metabolic patterns of aerobic and anaerobic capacity reflect differences in locomotor capacity and natural foraging patterns of these species.
Berger-Dell´Mour, H. (1996) - Überlegungen zum Kannibalismus bei Eidechsen. - Die Eidechse, Bonn/Bremen, 7 (17): 30-33.
In der zentralen Namib (Südwest-Afrika) leben die morphologisch sehr ähnlichen Eidechsentaxa Pedioplanis undata inortrata und P. husabensis parapatrisch nebeneinander. Insbesondere ihre Jungtiere sind äußerlich nicht voneinander zu unterscheiden. Nur P. husabensis nimmt Junge beider Arten als Nahrung an, verhält sich also `kannibalisch", während P. u. inornata einen `Ehrenkodex` entwickelt hat und seine eigenen sowie die Jungen der Schwesterart schont. Ein zunehmender Fitneßvorteil des kannibalischen Verhaltens in der Kontaktzone wird diskutiert.
Berger-Dell´Mour, H.A.E. & Mayer, W. (1989) - On the parapatric existence of two species of the Pedioplanis undata group (Reptilia: Sauria: Lacertidae) in the central Namib desert (Southwest Africa) with description of the new species Pedioplanis husabensis. - Herpetozoa, Wien, 1 (3/4): 83-95.
Im Rahmen einer Untersuchung der Reptilienfauna der zentralen Namib Wüste im Bereich der Unterläufe der Flüsse Khan und Swakop wurde eine bisher unbeschrie- bene Eidechse aus dem Pedioplanis undata Komplex entdeckt. Die Form lebt parapatrisch mit Pedioplanis undata inornata. Die konstante Diskontinuität morphologischer und bioche- mischer Merkmale bei den Individuen in der Koniaktzone beweist eine sehr effektive geneti- sche Isolation und damit die artliche Eigenständigkeit gegenüber Pedioplanis undata. Die neue Art wird als Pedioplanis husabensis n. sp. beschrieben.
Bischoff, W. (1991) - Übersicht der Arten und Unterarten der Familie Lacertidae. 4. Die Gattungen Latastia, Meroles, Mesalina, Nucras, Ophisops, Pedioplanis und Philochortus. - Die Eidechse, Bonn/Bremen, 1991 (4): 17-25.
Blumroeder, J. & Eccard, J.A. & Blaum, N. (2012) - Behavioural flexibility in foraging mode of the spotted sand lizard (Pedioplanis l. lineoocellata) seems to buffer negative impacts of savanna degradation. - Journal of Arid Environments, 77: 149–152.
In this field experiment we investigate the impact of land use induced savanna degradation on movement behaviour of the spotted sand lizard (Pedioplanis l. lineoocellata) in the southern Kalahari. Foraging behaviour of lizards was tested in a factorial design (low vs. high prey availability) in degraded and non-degraded habitats. An interaction between habitat structure and prey availability affected movement behaviour. In degraded habitats with low prey availability and in non-degraded habitats with high prey availability the spotted sand lizard moved more like an active forager. In contrast, in degraded habitats with high prey availability and in non-degraded habitats with low prey availability lizards moved like sit-and-wait foragers. Interestingly, the behavioural flexibility of the spotted sand lizard seems to buffer extreme conditions and negative effects of land use impacts.
Bocage, J.V.B. du (1867) - Segunda lista dos reptis das possessões portuguezas d'Africa occidental que existem no Museu de Lisboa. - Jornal de sciencias mathematicas, physicas e naturaes, Academia Real das Sciencias de Lisboa, I (3): 217-228.
Bocage, J.V.B. du (1895) - Herpétologie d'Angola et du Congo. - Ministério da Marinha e das Colónias, Lisbonne. 203 pp.
Boettger, O. (1893) - Familie XII. Lacertidae. - Katalog der Reptilien-Sammlung im Museum der Senckenbergischen Naturforschenden Gesellschaft, I. Teil: 78-94.
Boulenger, G.A. (1887) - Catalogue of the lizards in the British Museum (Natural History). Vol. III. Lacertidae. - London, 1887: I-XII + 1-118.
Boulenger, G.A. (1906) - Revised List of South African Reptiles and Batrachians. Family Lacertidae. - Annals of the South African Museum, Cape Town, South Africa, 5: 473-479.
Boulenger, G.A. (1920) - Monograph of the Lacertidae. Vol. I. - British Museum (Natural History). Department of Zoology. London. 352 pp.
Boulenger, G.A. (1921) - Monograph of the Lacertidae. Vol. II. - British Museum (Natural History). Department of Zoology. London. 451 pp.
Branch, B. (1988) - Field guide to snakes and other reptiles of southern Africa. - Struik Publishers, Cape Town. 328 pp.
Branch, W.R. (1981) - An annotated checklist of the lizards of the Cape Province, South Africa. - Annals of the Cape Provincial Museums Natural History, 13 (11): 141-165.
A checklist of the lizards of the Cape Province, South Africa is presented. A total of 143 species and subspecies is recognized. The taxonomic status of no less than 84 (59,1%) of these has changed since the last review of the Cape lizards by FitzSimons (1943). Comments on the distribution and taxonomic status of problematic groups are included.
Branch, W.R. (1988) - Life History Note: Pedioplanis burchelli: Reproduction. - Journal of the Herpetological Association of Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa, 35 (1): 37-39.
Branch, W.R. (1990) - The herpetofauna of the cape province, South Africa: New distribution records and zoogeography. - Journal of the Herpetological Association of Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa, 37 (1): 17-44 .
Numerous new distribution records are given for 19 amphibian, 3 tortoise, 32 lizard, and 15 snake species and subspecies in the Cape Province, particularly in the eastern and central karroid regions. Many species are shown to have much wider distributions than previously believed. The importance of the mountains of the inland escarpment as a refugium for temperate species, the presence of isolated populations of western arid species in the karroid valleys of the northern Cape Fold Mountains, and the possible vicariant effects caused by sea level fluctuations on species inhabiting the southern Cape coastal plain, are briefly discussed.
Branch, W.R. (1998) - Field guide to the snakes and other reptiles of southern Africa. Third Edition. - Struik Publishers, Cape Town. 368 pp.
Branch, W.R. (1999) - Reptile systematic studies in southern Africa: a brief history and overview. - Transactions of the Royal Society of South Africa, Cape Town, South Africa, 54 (1): 137-156.
Southern Africa has the richest reptile diversity in Africa, with a fauna that currently exceeds 490 species. Present rates of discovery, which for lizards are still comparable to those in the early phases of exploration, indicate that the fauna may approach, if not exceed, 600 species. Lizards form the dominant component (60.9%) of the reptile fauna. The 578 recognised taxa (species and subspecies) were described by 101 authors, of which 12 authors were responsible for 12 or more taxa and together named 68.9% of the total taxa. The five most productive authors were, in order: A. Smith, W. Peters, D. Broadley, J. Hewitt, and V. FitzSimons. The contributions of these authors, the growth in herpetological studies in the last 25 years, and the importance of regional surveys in the development of biogeographic models, are summarised. Over 50 species of reptile have very restricted distributions (less than 3 quarter-degree grid squares) and may be of conservation concern. Despite national rhetoric evincing concern for the biodiversity crisis, there has been a recent decline in herpetological posts and manpower.
Branch, W.R. (2006) - Priorities for systematic studies on southern African reptiles. - In: Branch, W.R., Tolley, K.A., Cunningham, M., Bauer, A.M., Alexander, G., Harrison, J.A., Turner, A.A. & Bates, M.F. (eds) 2006. A plan for phylogenetic studies of southern African reptiles: proceedings of a workshop held at Kirstenbosch, February 2006. Biodiversity Series 5. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.
Branch, W.R. & Baard, E.H.W. & Haacke, W.D. & Jacobsen, N. & Ponton, J.C. & Broadley, D.G. (1988) - A provisional and annotated checklist of the herpetofauna of southern africa. - Journal of the Herpetological Association of Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa, 34 (1): 1-19.
Branch, W.R. & Braack, H.H. (1987) - Reptiles and Amphibians of the Addo Elephant National Park. - in Koedoe - African Protected Area Conservation and Science, 30 (1): 61-111.
The results of a survey of the reptiles and amphibians of the Addo Elephant National Park (AENP) are presented. A total of 49 species, comprising 16 amphibians, 14 lizards, 15 snakes and 4 chelonians, occur in the AENP. Observations on the biology and distribution of these species in the AENP are given, and the relative composition and diversity is compared with the herpetofauna of the surrounding eastern Cape and the more distant Kruger National Park. The zoogeographic affinities of the AENP herpetofauna are similar to those of the surrounding eastern Cape (i.e. Cape Temperate 46,9, Temperate- Transitional 16,3, Eastern Tropical Transitional 10,2, Western Tropical Transitional 8,2, Tropical East Coast Littoral 2,0 and Temperate Wideranging 16,3). Resource partitioning among the AENP herpetofauna is discussed and the conservation status of the species summarised. A list of species that may still be collected within the AENP is included.
Branch, W.R. & Vaz Pinto, P. & Baptista, N. & Conradie, W. (2019) - The Reptiles of Angola: History, Diversity, Endemism and Hotspots. - In: Huntley B., Russo V., Lages F., Ferrand N. (eds) Biodiversity of Angola: 283-334.
This review summarises the current status of our knowledge of Angolan reptile diversity, and places it into a historical context of understanding and growth. It is compared and contrasted with known diversity in adjacent regions to allow insight into taxonomic status and biogeographic patterns. Over 67% of Angolan reptiles were described by the end of the nineteenth century. Studies stagnated dur- ing the twentieth century but have increased in the last decade. At least 278 reptiles are currently known, but numerous new discoveries have been made during recent surveys, and many novelties await description. Although lizard and snake diversity is currently almost equal, most new discoveries occur in lizards, particularly geckos and lacertids. Poorly known Angolan reptiles and others from adjacent regions that may occur in the country are highlighted. Most endemic Angolan reptiles are lizards and are associated with the escarpment and southwest arid region. Identification of reptile diversity hotspots are resolving but require targeted surveys for their delimitation and to enable protection. These include the Kaokoveld Centre of Endemism, Angolan Escarpment and the Congo forests of the north. The fauna of Angola remains poorly known and under-appreciated, but it is already evident that it forms an important centre of African reptile diversity and endemism.
Broadley, D.G. (2004) - Herpetofauna of the four corners area. - In: Timberlake, J.R. & Childes, S.L. (Eds.) 2004. Biodiversity of the Four Corners Area: Technical Reviews Volume Two (Chapters 5-15). Occasional Publications in Biodiversity No 15, Biodiversity Foundation for Africa, Bulawayo/Zambezi Society, Harare, Zimbabwe: 313- 346.
This review looks at available literature on the reptiles (including terrapins, tortoises, lizards, amphisbaenians, crocodiles) and amphibians of the Four Corners trans-frontier area, which covers both wetland and dryland habitats. The zoogeography of these groups is outlined. This is followed by an annotated list of the 178 species recorded to date. Particular species ands sites of conservation interest are briefly outlined. The herpetofauna of the Four Corners area is a comparatively well studied group, although the Hwange District in northwestern Zimbabwe has received the most attention.
Broadley, D.G. & Masango, T.C. (1994) - Pedioplanis lineoocellata lineoocellata. Geographical distribution. - African Herp News, Bloemfontein, South Africa, 21: 26.
Brown, R.P. (2005) - Large Subunit Mitochondrial rRNA Secondary Structures and Site-Specific Rate Variation in Two Lizard Lineages - Journal of Molecular Evolution, 60 (1): 45-56
A phylogenetic-comparative approach was used to assess and refine existing secondary structure models for a frequently studied region of the mitochondrial encoded large subunit (16S) rRNA in two large lizard lineages within the Scincomorpha, namely the Scincidae and the Lacertidae. Potential pairings and mutual information were analyzed to identify site interactions present within each lineage and provide consensus secondary structures. Many of the interactions proposed by previous models were supported, but several refinements were possible. The consensus structures allowed a detailed analysis of rRNA sequence evolution. Phylogenetic trees were inferred from Bayesian analyses of all sites, and the topologies used for maximum likelihood estimation of sequence evolution parameters. Assigning gamma-distributed relative rate categories to all interacting sites that were homologous between lineages revealed substantial differences between helices. In both lineages, sites within helix G2 were mostly conserved, while those within helix E18 evolved rapidly. Clear evidence of substantial site-specific rate variation (covarion-like evolution) was also detected, although this was not strongly associated with specific helices. This study, in conjunction with comparable findings on different, higher-level taxa, supports the ubiquitous nature of site-specific rate variation in this gene and justifies the incorporation of covarion models in phylogenetic inference.
Buiswalelo, B.N. (2018) - A description of reproduction, diet, nematode infection and sexual dimorphism in Agama anchietae and Pedioplanis undata undata (Reptilia: Lacertilia) in Namibia. - Master Thesis, University of Namibia. 31 pp.
The objectives of this study were to describe reproduction, diet, nematode infection and sexual dimorphism in Agama anchietae and Pedioplanis undata undata, two Namibian lizard species with wide geographic distributions for which such baseline ecological information is still lacking. The specimens used in the study came from the preserved Herpetological Collection of the National Museum of Namibia. Agama anchietae occupies rocky areas and the findings were as follows, reproduction: (i) it reproduces in spring and summer, the warm and rainy season of Namibia when insect food abounds, presumably to optimize the survival of its offspring, (ii) the gonads were inactive during autumn and winter, (iii) the mass of its abdominal fat bodies and liver decreased during the reproductive period, presumably because they serve as sources of energy during that time; diet: (i) prey items consumed by the sexes belonged to the orders Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera and Mantodea, (ii) in addition to these an item belonging to the Diptera was also found in males, (iii) no significant numerical differences were found between the sexes with respect to the items consumed, (iv) the fact that hymenopterans occurred in substantially higher numbers suggest that the species relies mainly on sit-and-wait foraging; nematode infection: (i) in both sexes a larger number of nematodes occurred in the stomach than in the intestine, (ii) no significant numerical differences in infection were found between the sexes; sexual dimorphism: (i) males were larger than females in absolute body size, (ii) relative hind-limb but not forelimb length of males was significantly longer than that of females; (iii) relative head breath, length and width of males were all significantly greater than that of females. Pedioplanis undata undata occurs in flat open areas and the findings were as follows, reproduction: (i) a similar pattern with respect to the activity of the gonads as reported for A. anchietae above was also found in this species, (ii) the same also applied to the mass fluctuations of the abdominal fat bodies and the liver; diet: (i) males consumed items belonging to the orders Hymenoptera, Isoptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Blatoidea, Solifugida as well as larvae, (ii) in females the prey items belonged to the Hymenoptera, Orthoptera, Coleoptera, Hemiptera and Aranea, (iii) no significant numerical differences were found between the sexes for similar prey items, (iv) the low numbers of hymenopterans but fairly high diversity of prey types suggest that this species is a wide forager; nematode infection: (i) in both the stomach and intestine nematode infection was low with that of the stomach marginally higher than that of the intestine, (ii) no significant numerical differences were found between males and females; sexual dimorphism: (i) males and females were of similar body size, (ii) males had significantly longer fore-and hind-limbs than females, and may therefore be able to run faster, (iii) relative head breath, length and width of males were all significantly greater than that of females.
Busack, S.D. & Maxson, L.R. (1987) - Molecular relationships among Iberian, Moroccan, and South African lacertid lizards (Reptilia: Lacertidae). - Amphibia-Reptilia, 8 (4): 383-392.
Relationships among representatives of five genera of lacertid lizards from Iberia, Morocco, and South Africa were studied using quantitative micro-complement fixation analysis of serum albumin evolution. Using the albumin molecular clock to establish divergence times we suggest (1) South African Ichnotropis and North African Psammodromus diverged from the lineage representing Lacerta lepida-L. monticola during the Oligocene, (2) South African Pedioplanis and Heliobolus diverged from this lineage during the late Miocene, and (3) ancestral representatives of L. andreanszkyi, L. perspicillata and Podarcis hispanica diverged from lineages leading to L. monticola and L. lepida during the mid-Miocene. Radiation within the Palearctic Lacertidae has clearly been extensive, yet fewer than twenty percent of the species in this radiation have been examined biochemically. Until additional data can be gathered, the current classification of the Palearctic Lacertidae cannot be much improved and we recommend adherence to the taxonomy proposed by Arnold (1973).
Castilla, A.M. & Van Damme, R. & Bauwens, D. (1999) - Field body temperatures, mechanisms of thermoregulation and evolution of thermal characteristics in lacertid lizards. - Natura Croatica, Zagreb, 8 (3): 253-274.
We discuss three aspects of the thermal biology of lacertid lizards. First, we provide an overview of the available data on field body temperatures (Tb), the thermal sensitivity of various performance functions and selected body temperatures in different species of lacertid lizards. We also briefly summarise information on the mechanisms of thermoregulation. Second, we discuss recent developments to estimate the »precision« of thermoregulation, and the contribution of distinct behavioural mechanisms. Finally, we revise available evidence for the existence of evolutionary adjustments of thermal characteristics in lacertid lizards. Existing studies have mainly dealt with within- and among-species differences in thermoregulatory behaviour (selected temperatures) and thermal physiology of adults (optimal temperatures, heating rates). Available data provide only limited evidence for clear-cut evolutionary shifts in thermal physiology characteristics along climatic gradients.
Ceríaco, L.M.P. & Sá, D.d.A.C. de & Bandeira, S. & Valério, H. & Stanley, E.L. & Kuhn, A.L. & Marques, M.P. & Vindum, J.V. & Blackburn, D.C. & Bauer, A.M. (2016) - Herpetological Survey of Iona National Park and Namibe Regional Natural Park, with a Synoptic List of the Amphibians and Reptiles of Namibe Province, Southwestern Angola. - Proceedings of the California Academy of Sciences, series 4, 63 (2): 15-61.
Namibe Province is the southernmost province of Angola and, as the result of sever- al expeditions from the nineteenth century to the present, it is one of the most her- petofaunally well-known areas of the country. The Province harbors a high diversi- ty of amphibians and reptiles, including roughly one-third of the reptile taxa report- ed for Angola as a whole. In this paper we present the results of a joint herpetologi- cal expedition to Namibe Province in 2013 by the California Academy of Sciences and the Instituto Nacionalda Biodiversidade e Áreas de Conservação, as well as a synoptic list of all the herpetological bibliographic records for the taxa known from the Province. A total of 37 herpetological taxa was collected, including at least three (then) undescribed species, two new country records, and new records for rarely cited taxa in Angola. These taxa belong to four amphibian genera and 15 reptile gen- era. Species accounts are provided for each of the species collected. We also highlight biogeographic patterns, conservation issues, and possible future paths for the explo- ration and knowledge of the herpetofauna of Namibe.
Childers, J.L. (2016) - Phylogenetics and phylogeography of southern African sand lizards, Pedioplanis (Sauria: Lacerrtidae). - Thesis Villanova University. 138 pp.
Phylogenetic relationships among the 13 currently recognized species of Pedioplanis were analyzed using nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. Previous measures of species diversity within the genus appear to be underestimated, as novel, undescribed lineages were found within P. lineoocellata, P. namaquensis and the P. undata species complex. Further fine-scaled population genetic analyses were conducted to assess levels of genetic admixture, identify potential hybrid zones and uncover historical demographic patterns. Within P. lineoocellata, my results show that the three currently recognized subspecies do not represent independently evolving lineages. Further analyses suggest a South African origin of the species, with a subsequent northern expansion during the late Miocene. P. namaquensis appears to be comprised of two distinct and highly divergent lineages, furthermore the Orange River appears to represent a geographic barrier between them. Finally, interspecific relationships within the P. undata complex appear to be more complicated than previously thought as instances of paraphyly, polyphyly and several novel lineages were all revealed by the phylogenetic analyses.
Conradie, W. (2012) - Pedioplanis husabensis: Maximum Size and Pedioplanis lineoocellata lineoocellata: Maximum Size. - Herpetological Bulletin, 2012 (120): 42-43.
Conradie, W. & Douchette-Riise, S. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Engelbrecht, H.M. & Measey, G.J. & Tolley, K.A. (2011) - Herpetological survey of Rooipoort Nature Reserve, Northern Cape province, South Africa. - African Herp News, Bloemfontein, South Africa, 53: 35-41.
Conradie, W. & Engelbrecht, H.M. & Herrel, A. & Measey, G.J. & Nielsen, S.V. & Vanhooydonck, B. & Tolley, K.A. (2011) - Reptile survey of Venetia Limpopo Nature Reserve, Limpopo province - South Africa. - African Herp News, Bloemfontein, South Africa, 55: 6-12.
Conradie, W. & Measey, G.J. & Branch, W.R. & Tolley, K. (2012) - Revised phylogeny of African sand lizards (Pedioplanis), with the description of two new species from south-western Angola - African Journal of Herpetology, Johannesburg, South Africa, 61 (2): 1-22.
Although reptile diversity in Africa is high, it is poorly represented in Angola, with just 257 species known. Despite its greater surface area and habitat diversity Angola has significantly lower lacertid lizard diversity than adjacent Namibia. This is particularly notable in African sand lizards (Pedioplanis), where 10 species (two endemic) are known from Namibia but only two are recorded from adjacent Angola. Pedioplanis benguelensis was described from Angola, but its taxonomic status is problematic and it was previously synonymised with P. namaquensis. All other Angolan Pedioplanis were referred to Namibian P. undata, although this taxon is now known to comprise a complex of at least five different species and the relationship of Angolan material to this complex has not been assessed. In this study, we investigated the phylogenetic placement of Angolan Pedioplanis using two mitochondrial (ND2 and 16S) and one nuclear (RAG-1) markers. A Bayesian analysis was conducted on 21 samples from Angola, combined with existing data for 45 individuals from GenBank and three additional samples from central Namibia. The phylogeny demonstrates that P. benguelensis is a valid species and that it is not the sister taxon to P. namaquensis with which it has been morphologically confused. In addition, Angolan lacertids previously referred to P. undata are not conspecific with any of the Namibian or South African species in that complex. Rather, there is strong support for the presence in Angola of additional species of Pedioplanis, which form a wellsupported sister clade to the P. undata complex (sensu stricto) of Namibia and two ofwhich are described herein. These discoveries highlight the need for further biodiversity surveys in Angola, as similar increases in species diversity in other Angolan taxa might be found given sufficient investment in biodiversity surveys.
Cooper Jr., W.E. & Whiting, M.J. (1999) - Foraging modes in lacertid lizards from southern Africa. - Amphibia-Reptilia, 20 (3): 299-311.
Most lacertids are active foragers, but intrafamilial variation in foraging mode is greater than in most lizard families. We collected data on eight species of African lacertids to assess this variation. Both active and ambush foraging occurred within Pedioplanis and Meroles. Meroles ctenodactylus had a proportion of time moving and proportion of attacked prey detected while moving intermediate to those for actively foraging and ambushing Pedioplanis, but its number of movements per minute was exceptionally high. This species has a unique mixed foraging mode. Like active foragers, it seeks food by tongue-flicking while moving and spends a high percentage of the time moving. Like ambush foragers, it searches visually for prey during pauses between movements. Our findings confirm published data on four Kalahari lacertids. We discuss the history of foraging modes in advanced lacertids.
Cunningham, P.C. & Wassenaar, T. & Henschel, J. (2012) - Notes on some aspects of the ecology of the Husab Sand Lizard, Pedioplanis husabensis, from Namibia. - African Herp News, Bloemfontein, South Africa, 56: 1-11.
Cunningham, P.L. (2011) - Vertebrate Fauna and Flora associated with the Desert Star South–Phases 1A-C–Area - Environment and Wildlife Consulting Namibia
Daniels, R. & Altwegg, R. & Clusella-Trullas. S. & Tolley, K.A. (2016) - Complex spatial genetic patterns and extensive secondary contact in the Spotted Sand Lizard (Pedioplanis lineoocellata). - Oral presentation, 12th Conference Herpetological Association of Africa. – African Herp News, Bloemfontein, South Africa, 63: 32.
The Spotted Sand Lizard, Pedioplanis lineoocellata, is widespread across much of southern African found primarily in open habitats. Recent work uncovered four mitochondrial DNA clades which were previously unknown. The formation of these clades is thought to be linked to the Plio-Pleistocene glacial cycles. Furthermore, two of the most geographically widespread clades occur sympatrically in the Loeriesfontein region which has raised questions of possible hybridisation. To investigate gene flow between the latter two clades, samples were profiled at nine microsatellite markers and genetic patterns assessed using estimates of divergence and migration, and a discriminant analysis of principle components. While measures of genetic differentiation and the proportion of recent migrates at each population supports greater gene flow over a few 10s of kilometres and far less over 100s of kilometres, there was no isolation-by-distance pattern. This suggests that gene flow is influenced by barriers or environmental resistance to gene flow. Microsatellite genetic clusters did not match mitochondrial clades which was interpreted as evidence of recent gene flow between the two clades. Hybridisation at Loeriesfontein could not be detected because mitochondrial clades were not genetically distinct in terms of microsatellite loci investigated. Mitochondrial lineages may occur sympatrically at places other than Loeriesfontein but were not sampled by chance because of small sample sizes in the previous study. The regions of overlap between mitochondrial clades may be more extensive than previously thought. Further clarity regarding the formation of clusters awaits more comprehensive sampling.
Daniels, R.J. (2014) - Dispersal and Gene Flow in the Southern African Endemic Lacertid, Pedioplanis lineoocellata, Based on Microsatellite and Capture-Mark- Recapture Data. - Master thesis, Stellenbosch University, South Africa. 147 pp.
Dispersal determines connectivity between populations within a species and is a regulator of genetic differentiation through gene flow. Although the necessity of dispersal for gene flow is clear, for many taxa the relationship between the two is not well understood. Gene flow, or a restriction thereof, may be inferred from population-level genetic divergence estimates. These measures are averages of contemporary and historic gene flow and as such they are not necessarily easily compared to measures of real-time dispersal. Changes in dispersal have been inferred from present day spatial genetic structure for many southern African taxa and further associated with environmental change events. Pedioplanis lineoocellata is a southern African endemic lacertid with a mitochondrial DNA structure that may have been the result of Plio-Pleistocene glacial climatic oscillations. As a wide-spread, open habitat species, P. lineoocellata is an excellent study species for examining the relationship between dispersal and gene flow. In the first data chapter, Chapter 2, nine new microsatellite markers are described for several populations for the purpose of examining gene flow and genetic structure in the species. The possibility of null alleles, population bottlenecks and high inbreeding are investigated as possible explanations for the detected deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE). The presence of null alleles and, at one population, relatively high inbreeding best explains the HWE deviations. While null allele frequencies were not excessively high, this caveat should be borne in mind when interpreting results. In Chapter 3 the microsatellite markers were used to assess the geographic genetic patterns for P. lineoocellata across the distribution of the two most wide-spread mitochondrial lineages and to test for evidence of hybridization at a point of clade contact in the Loeriesfontein area. Microsatellite genetic clusters did not match the mtDNA lineages, a possible result of gene flow between clades. However, measures of genetic differentiation and recent migration indicate only weak contemporary long distance gene flow. There was no evidence of genetic admixture at the Loeriesfontein area despite sympatric mtDNA lineages. The complexity of the geographic arrangement of the microsatellite clusters may be attributed to historic range contraction and expansion events for the species. In the last data chapter, evidence for an isolation-by-distance (IBD) pattern was examined within the most widespread mtDNA clade. Sampling over hundreds of kilometres produced an IBD pattern when using spatial autocorrelation while failure to detect IBD using the Mantel test was likely a result of the complex arrangement of microsatellite clusters. A combination of genetic data and demographic data was used to estimate the annual dispersal distances based on the neighbourhood size concept. Results indicated high levels of dispersal that covered distances of a few hundred metres, greater than is expected for a lacertid lizard. Strong dispersal propensity would have influenced gene flow and genetic structure found in this thesis and will further influence future responses to environmental changes for the species.
Della Rossa, A. & Putti, R. (1995) - The endocrine pancreas of lacertids: an immunocytochemical study of the genera Pedioplanis and Meroles. - European journal of histochemistry, 39 (1): 47-58.
The endocrine pancreas from 2 genera of lacertid lizards (Pedioplanis and Meroles) was investigated immunocytochemically for the presence of immunoreactivity to mammalian antisera to insulin (I), glucagon (G), pancreatic polypeptide (PP), peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY), neuropeptide tyrosine (NPY), somatostatin 14 (SRIF 14) and somatostatin 28 (SRIF 28), pancreastatin (Pst), galanin (Gl), oxytocin (OT). Cells immunoreactive (IR) to all the antisera used, and nerve fibers IR only to anti-galanin were found. Moreover, three types of colocalized immunoreactivities were detected: type 1 (PP/PYY/NPY), type 2 (G/PP/PYY/NPY), and type 3 (G/PYY/NPY/Pst).
Dely, O.G. & Stohl, G. (1982) - Pileusbeschilderung und phylogenetische Beziehungen innerhalb der Lacertiden. - Vertebrata Hungarica, Budapest, 21: 85-109.
Comparative analyses were carried out about the variability of the pileal shields of different species belonging to the family Lacertidae. The results of the comparisons have been evaluated in respect to the phylogenetical relationships existing between the different genera and species of the family.
Duméril, A.M.C. & Bibron, G. (1839) - Livre quatrième: De l`ordre des lézards ou des sauriens - Seconde sous-famille. Autosaures Coelodontes. - Erpétologie Générale ou Histoire Naturelle Complète des Reptiles, 5: 153-317.
Duméril, A.M.C. & Bibron, G. (1839) - Decription of Pedioplanis burchelli. - In: "Erpétologie Générale on Histoire Naturelle Complète des Reptiles". Tome 5.Roret/Fain et Thunot, Paris, 871 pp.
Duméril, A.M.C. & Bibron, G. (1839) - Description of Pedioplanis namaquensis. - In: "Erpétologie Générale on Histoire Naturelle Complète des Reptiles". Tome 5. Roret/Fain et Thunot, Paris, 871 pp.
Edwards, S. (2013) - Patterns and processes of adaptation in lacertid lizards to environments in southern Africa. - Dissertation presented for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Zoology) in the Faculty of Science at Stellenbosch University, 2013. 186 S.
The phenotype of an individual has often been used as the descriminating factor in distinguishing species. However, with the advent of more precise molecular techniques, the genotype of species is increasingly being used as the preferred method in taxonomic classifications. Many taxa have recently been demonstrated to be incongruent in terms of their genetic and morphological groupings, and this may due to the influence that the environment may have on the morphological and functional aspects of a species. Selective pressures often act upon the performance of a species within a particular habitat first, and then selection for the morphological characters that allow for optimal performance occurs. Should genetically disparate species inhabit a particular environment, convergence in morphologies and performance may evolve. Historically, lizard species descriptions were based primarily on external morphologies, and thus misclassfication of species may have occurred due to mistakenly grouping species with convergent morphologies together. In the current dissertation, the links between morphology, performance capacities, diet and behaviour is explored in comparison to the environment and genetic relationships of southern African lacertid lizards. The performance capacities and associated morphological traits were expected to be more closely linked with the environment, and not closely linked with genetic relationships. To investigate these expectations, a multidisciplinary approach was taken, and genetic, morphological and performance analyses were done and compared with dietary behavioural and environmental analyses. In the first chapter, the link between habitat openness and the lizard bauplans is investigated and the presence of convergent morphologies within this group of lizards is uncovered. These convergences are shown to have resulted in misclassification of two lacertid species, and taxonomic revisions within the family are discussed. The second chapter explores the link between performance and associated morphological traits, and the dietary composition of the members of the Nucras genus. The third chapter identifies the link between the predator escape strategies employed by the members of the Meroles genus, and their morphologies and performance capacities. The fourth chapter explores the intraspecific, inter-population differences in morphologies and investigates the link between the morphological groupings and the population genetic groupings within Pedioplanis lineoocellata. The final chapter identifies whether adaptation to a novel habitat can occur over a relatively short period of time, and the morphological traits, functional aspects, and population genetic structure is investigated in conjunction with environmental analyses of vegetation and substrate between the populations of Meroles knoxii. It was concluded that the morphological and functional aspects of the southern African lacertid lizards are more closely related to the environment, particularly the microhabitat structure, than to their genetic relationships, and that future work using this group of lizards should involve a multidisplinary approach as different selective pressures are playing a role in shaping the morphologies and performance capacities of these lizards, compared to those that are acting upon the genotypes of the lizards.
Eifler, D.A. & Baipidi, K. & Eifler, M.A. & Dittmer, D. & Nguluka, L. (2012) - Influence of prey encounter and prey identity on area-restricted searching in the lizard Pedioplanis namaquensis. - Journal of Ethology, 30 (1): 197-200.
We experimentally determined that the lizard Pedioplanis namaquensis engages in area-restricted searching (=ARS, localized searching after encounters with food) while foraging and that prey characteristics influence ARS. Single prey items were introduced to free-ranging lizards, and their subsequent search effort was characterized using first passage times (=FPT, time required for an animal to cross a circle of a given radius). Three prey types were used: termites, flies, and rice (control). FPTs were longer following termite encounters than following fly or control encounters. Control treatments produced no change in FPT, while lizards searching for termites showed the greatest change. The use by Pedioplanis namaquensis of ARS was most pronounced for the typically aggregated prey type.
Elzen, P. van den (1983) - Zur Herpetofauna des Brandberges, Südwest-Afrika. - Bonner zoologische Beiträge, Bonn, 34 (1-3): 293-309.
Engleder, A. & Haring, E. & Kirchhof, S. & Mayer, W. (2013) - Multiple nuclear and mitochondrial DNA sequences provide new insights into the phylogeny of South African Lacertids (Lacertidae, Eremiadinae). - Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research, Berlin, 51 (2): 132-143.
Eremiadinae, one of three subfamilies of Lacertidae, are distributed throughout Asia and Africa. Previous phylogenetic studies suggested that one of the main groups of Eremiadinae (the Ethiopian clade) consist of two clades with predominately East-African and South-African distribution. Yet, especially the latter one, which includes the genera Pedioplanis, Meroles, Ichnotropis, Tropidosaura and Australolacerta, was not well supported in the molecular phylogenetic analysis. In this study, we analysed the phylogenetic relationships among the genera of the 'South African clade' to assess whether this group actually forms a highly supported clade and to address questions concerning the monophyly of the genera. We sequenced sections of the widely used mitochondrial genes coding for 16S rRNA, 12S rRNA and cytochrome b (altogether 2045 bp) as well as the nuclear genes c-mos, RAG-1, PRLR, KIF24, EXPH5 and RAG-2 (altogether 4473 bp). The combined data set increased the support values for several nodes considerably. Yet, the relationships among five major lineages within the 'South African clade' are not clearly resolved even with this large data set. We interpret this as a 'hard polytomy' due to fast radiation within the South African lacertids. The combined tree based on nine marker genes provides strong support for the 'South African Clade' and its sister group relationship with the 'East African Clade'. Our results confirm the genus Tropidosaura as a monophylum, while Ichnotropis is paraphyletic in our trees: Ichnotropis squamulosa appears more closely related to Meroles than to Ichnotropis capensis. Furthermore, the monophyly of Meroles is questionable as well. Based on our results, I. squamulosa should be transferred from Ichnotropis into the genus Meroles. Also, the two species of Australolacerta (A. australis and A. rupicola) are very distantly related and the genus is perhaps paraphyletic, too. Finally we propose a phylogeographical scenario in the context of palaeoclimatic data and compare it with a previously postulated hypothesis.
Engleder, A. & Haring, E. & Kirchhof, S. & Mayer, W. (2013) - Multiple nuclear and mitochondrial DNA sequences provide new insights into the phylogeny of South African Lacertids (Lacertidae, Eremiadinae). - Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research, Berlin, 51 (2): Supplement.
Fitch, H.S. (1970) - Lacertidae. - Reproductive Cycles of Lizards and Snakes. Miscellaneous Publications of University of Kansas, 52: 102-107.
Fitzinger, L.I. (1843) - II. Sectio. Coelodontes. Dum. Bibr. - In: Systema Reptilium, Fasciculus Primus: Amblyglossae. Braumüller & Seidl, Wien: 20-21.
FitzSimons, V. (1935) - Scientific results of the Vernay-Lang Kalahari Expedition, March to September, 1930. Reptilia and Amphibia. Part 2. - Annals of the Transvaal Museum, 16 (2): 295-397.
FitzSimons, V. (1937) - Notes on the reptiles and amphibians collected and described from South Africa by Andrew Smith. - Annals of the Transvaal Museum, 17 (4): 259-274.
The available material of the collection of reptiles and amphibians collected and described from 1831 by Andrew Smith, is re-examined to determine in how far it may be regarded as typical. A complete list of the new species described by Smith, together with notes and comments pertaining thereto, is given. Illustrated with a plate on the type specimen of Pelusios sinuatis.
FitzSimons, V.F. (1943) - The Lizards of South Africa. - Transvaal Museum Memoir, Pretoria, South Africa, Memoir No. 1, 528 pp.
Fitzsimons, V.F.M. (1938) - Transvaal Museum Expedition to South-West Africa and Little Namaqualand, May to August 1937 - Reptiles and Amphibians. - Annals of the Transvaal Museum, 19 (2): 153-209.
Goldberg, S.R. (2006) - Reproductive cycle of the spotted sand lizard, Pedioplanis lineoocellata (Squamata; Lacertidae) from southern Africa. - Texas Journal of Science, 58: 65-72.
The reproductive cycle of the spotted sand lizard, Pedioplanis lineoocellata, is described from histological examination of gonadal material. Reproduction is seasonal and mainly confined to summer. Males have a testicular cycle in which spermiogenesis occurred primarily in December-February. Females with enlarged ovarian follicles (> 4 mm length) occurred January-February and October. The presence of females with corpora lutea from a previous clutch and yolk deposition for a subsequent clutch suggests more than one clutch can be produced in the same reproductive season. Mean clutch size for 22 females with enlarged ovarian follicles was 6.8 [+ or -] 2.0 SD, range: 2-11. Two eggs is a new minimum clutch size and 11 is a new maximum clutch size for P. lineoocellata. The smallest reproductively active male measured 42 mm SVL and the smallest reproductively active female measured 50 mm SVL.
Goldberg, S.R. (2006) - Reproductive cycle of the Namaqua sand lizard, Pedioplanis namaquensis (Squamata: Lacertidae), from southern Africa. - African Zoology, Cape Town, South Africa, 41: 147-149.
The reproductive cycle of the Namaqua sand lizard, Pedioplanis namaquensis, from southern Africa is described from histological examination of gonadal material from museum specimens. Males followed a seasonal testicular cycle in which sperm was produced in January–March and September–December. Testes in regression were present in March and May. Females with enlarged ovarian follicles (>4 mm length) or oviductal eggs were collected between November and February. Clutch size for 14 females was 3.8 ± 0.97 S.D. eggs, range 3–5. Histological evidence is presented that two clutches may be produced in the same reproductive season.
Goldberg, S.R. (2009) - Pedioplanis undata A. Smith 1838 Western Sand Lizard. Reproduction. - African Herp News, Bloemfontein, South Africa, 49: 17-18.
Gray, J.E. (1845) - Description of Pedioplanis lineoocellata pulchella. - In: "Catalogue of the Specimens of Lizards in the Collection of the British Museum". Newman, London. 288 pp.
Griffin, M. (2002) - Annotated Checklist and Provisional Conservation Status of Namibian Reptiles. - Technical Reports of Scientific Services Nr. 1. Windhoek: Ministry of Environment and Tourism. 76 pp.
An annotated checklist of indigenous and potentially indigenous Namibian terrestrial, aquatic and marine reptiles is presented. The purpose is to serve as an interim description of Namibian reptile diversity, to establish a taxonomic and biogeographical baseline, and as a preliminary review of the conservation status of Namibian reptiles. Two hundred and forty species of indigenous reptiles are presently known to occur in Namibia. These species comprise an array of approximately 265 described (but not always recognized) taxa, several of which are probably unwarranted. Species accounts are presented for all these species. Four accounts are for new species currently being described. Nineteen species have not yet been recorded from Namibia, but are expected to (accounts given) and another 6 species are less likely to occur (no accounts given). Full accounts are given for the 17 species which have been formally recorded in the past, but the lack of recent evidence suggests that the species is now locally extinct, the original report erroneous, or the species' occurred as vagrants. Four additional species had been included on various published lists in the past, but have never been formally documented, no specimens are known to exist, and it is unlikely that the species would occur today even as vagrants (no accounts given). In total, 276 species-accounts are presented. Each account cites the original reference and type locality for each taxon, and a short description of the Namibian distribution. Emphasis is placed on Namibian and international legal and conservation status. Eighty-five species (33%) were found to be of local conservation concern. Gaps in knowledge (e.g. taxonomy, biogeography, and conservation status), where future research should be directed, are noted.
Haacke, W.D. (1984) - The herpetology of the southern Kalahari domain. - Koedoe - African Protected Area Conservation and Science, 27 (1): 171-186.
The herpetofauna of the southern Kalahari has mixed affinities, as this area lies on a rainfall gradient in a critical area where a transition between the arid south-west and the moister north-east takes place. As the variation in substrate type is relatively limited, the effect of the rainfall gradient appears to influence and determine the range limits of many taxa in both directions, resulting in an area in which of 55 recorded reptiles, 11 western taxa overlap or form a parapatric zone with 25 eastern taxa, while the remaining taxa are endemic or wideranging.
Harris, D.J. (1999) - Molecular systematics and evolution of lacertid lizards. - Natura Croatica, Zagreb, 8 (3): 161-180.
In recent years there has been an exponential increase in the amount of published DNA sequences, as it has become one of the most popular sources of data for reconstructing phylogenies. A number of studies have attempted to resolve the relationships of groups of lacertids using mitochondrial DNA sequence data, in particular Podarcis and Gallotia (e.g. THORPE et al., 1994; 1996; GONZALEZ et al., 1996; FU et al., 1997; HARRIS, 1997; HARRIS et al., 1998a; 1999; CASTILLA et al., 1999a,b). Reassessment of these data suggest some alternative phylogenies to those previously published, and also highlight possible problems. Two studies have attempted to unravel the phylogeny of the whole family using mitochondrial DNA sequences (FU, 1998; HARRIS et al., 1998b). By combining these essentially congruent data sets, and reanalysing levels of support for the phylogenies produced, a more complete estimate of relationships across the family is produced. This is then compared to alternative sources of evidence, primarily morphological (ARNOLD, 1989), biochemical (MAYER & BENYR, 1994) and karyological (OLMO et al., 1993). Reasons for discrepencies are discussed, as are the relative advantages and disadvantages of the different sources of phylogenetic inference.
Harris, D.J. & Arnold, E.N. & Thomas, R.H. (1998) - Relationships of lacertid lizards (Reptilia: Lacertidae) estimated from mitochondrial DNA sequences and morphology. - Proceedings of the Royal Society, 265: 1939-1948.
DNA sequences from parts of the 12S, 16S and cytochrome b mitochondrial genes, which totalled 1049 aligned base pairs, were used to estimate the relationships of 49 species of Lacertidae, including representatives of 19 out of the 23 recognized genera and 23 species of the paraphyletic genus Lacerta. These data were used, together with morphological information, to estimate the relationships within the family. Molecular evidence corroborates the monophyletic status of many genera and species groups originally based on morphology. It indicates that Psammodromus forms a clade with Gallotia, which is the sister taxon of all other lacertids. These comprise three units: the primarily Afrotropical armatured group; the largely Oriental Takydromus; and the west Palaearctic Lacerta and its derivatives, Podarcis and Algyroides. Morphology also supports the first three assemblages, but suggests that they are derived from a paraphyletic Lacerta. Within Lacerta and its allies, DNA sequence analysis corroborates the affinity of some members of each of the subgenera Lacerta s. str. and Timon, and of the L. saxicola group. It also supports the relationship of L. monticola, L. bonnali and L. horvathi, and suggests that the L. parva–L. fraasi clade and L. brandti are not related to Psammodromus–Gallotia, as morphology indicates, but instead are associated respectively with the L. danfordi and L. saxicola groups. DNA sequence data provide additional evidence that the eastern Arabian `Lacerta` jayakari and `L.` cyanura are members of the armatured clade and also sister species. Our analysis supports an origin for present lacertids in west Eurasia. The armatured clade invaded Africa, probably in the mid-Miocene, spreading widely and evolving increasingly xeric-adapted forms, one lineage of which later moved back into the Palaearctic. `Lacerta` jayakari and `L.` cyanura are assigned to Omanosaura, Lutz and Mayer 1986. The name Gallotiinae Cano, Baez, Lopez-Jurado and Ortega, 1984 is available for the Gallotia–Psammodromus clade, Eremiainae Shcherbak 1975 for the armatured clade and Lacertinae for Lacerta, Podarcis and Algyroides. Two new subgenera of Lacerta are proposed here: Caucasilacerta for L. saxicola and its allies, and Parvilacerta for L. parva and L. fraasi.
Hauke, T. (2018) - Namibia – Eindrücke während der Regenzeit. - Draco, Münster, 16 (4): 50-59.
Herrmann, H.-W. & Branch, W.R. (2013) - Fifty years of herpetological research in the Namib Desert and Namibia with an updated and annotated species checklist. - Journal of Arid Environments, 93: 94-115.
Namibia is mostly an arid and semi-arid country with a high number of reptile and fewer amphibian species. We review the herpetological literature dealing with Namibian species over the past fifty years, and provide up-to-date amphibian and reptile accounts using a widely accepted taxonomy and nomenclature. We critically discuss species accounts, draw attention to the historical development of species inventories for the country, and indicate species endemism for Namibia and the Namib Desert. In Namibia, the lizard families Gekkonidae, Lacertidae, and Scincidae have undergone adaptive radiations and are species-rich. This also applies to the snake family Psammophiidae. Areas of herpetological research that have received most attention are systematics (with its disciplines faunistics (area inventories), taxonomy, and phylogeny), ecology, and physiology. The former is indicative of early stages of herpetological research such as area inventories and the subsequent analyzes of the collections. The latter two were largely enabled by (1) species highly adapted to life in the hyper-arid Namib Desert, and (2) by the accessibility of these species in the Namib Desert through the infrastructure provided by the Gobabeb Research and Training Center. The majority of the eco-physiological research has focused on three highly psammophilus, diurnal lizard species; Meroles anchietae, M. cuneirostris, and Gerrhosaurus skoogi, whilst diverse geckos form the basis of eco-morphological studies. The concentration of research localities around cities and the Gobabeb Research and Training Center is characteristic for opportunistic research. Geographic centers of herpetological research have been the central Namib Desert (i.e. Gobabeb), and areas around Swakopmund and Windhoek. Extensive parts of Namibia remain barely touched. Herpetological publication frequency has been approximately the same since its beginning in the early 1800`s until the 1970`s. The period between 1986 and 2003 experienced a remarkable increase of publication activity that has slightly subsided around 2004 and picked up again in recent years. Recent conservation related studies investigate the impact of overgrazing with land degradation and water related issues such as canals and hydroelectric dam projects on herpetological communities. In the near future the impact of mining, especially Uranium mining in the Namib Desert, and the effects of climate change with the predicted drying and warming will demand increased attention. Advances in biotechnology with ever-increasing amounts of data and decreasing cost have and will progressively enable advances in traditional disciplines like taxonomy, phylogeny, and systematics. Additionally, these technologies will increasingly empower the newer disciplines of molecular ecology and conservation biology in Namibia. Annotated, updated species checklists highlight Namibian and Namib diversity and endemicity, and also direct researchers to the numerous taxonomic problems that still confound full understanding of the region`s herpetofauna.
Hewitt, J. (1910) - A key to the South African species of Geckonidae, Scincidae, Gerrhosauridae, and Lacertidae, together with some notes on the specific characters and a brief summary of the known of their distribution. - Annals of the Transvaal Museum, 2: 77-115.
Hewitt, J. (1926) - Some new or little-known reptiles and batrachians from South Africa. - Annals of the South African Museum, Cape Town, South Africa, 20: 473-490.
Hewitt, J. & Camb, B.A. (1916) - Description of Heleophryne natalensis, a New Batrachian from Natal; and Notes on Several South African Batrachians and Reptiles. - Annals of the Natal Museum, 2: 475-484.
Hipsley, C. (2012) - Evolutionary consequences of Cenozoic climate change on African lacertid lizards (Squamata: Lacertidae). - Ph.D. dissertation, University of California. 126 pp.
The evolutionary diversification of many terrestrial vertebrate groups is strongly linked to climatic events in the Cenozoic, the period from 65 Million years ago to today when modern animals first appeared. I investigated the effects of Cenozoic climate change on the taxonomic and morphological diversification of the Old World lizard family Lacertidae, with particular emphasis on the African radiation. African lacertids exhibit an unusual pattern of diversification, in which their highest species richness occurs in deserts north and south of the equator, despite being spread throughout the continent. This disparity is particularly surprising given that desert lacertids are thought to be evolutionarily younger than their mesic-dwelling relatives, suggesting increased diversification rates in arid habitats. To identify the evolutionary factors underlying this pattern, I use a combination of phylogenetic, morphological and ecological techniques. In Chapter 1, I apply Bayesian methods and fossil-based calibrations to molecular sequence data to construct a time-calibrated phylogeny for Lacertidae. I estimate that the family arose in the early Cenozoic, with the majority of their African radiation occurring in the Eocene and Oligocene. In Chapter 2, I describe changes in lacertid body shape across biomes and substrates, and find widespread morphological convergence in similar habitat types. I suggest that in addition to foraging demands, fluctuating and extreme climatic conditions, largely driven by precipitation and temperature, contribute to morphological convergence across independent arid-dwelling clades. Finally, I test if ancestral transitions in ecology, morphology, and rates of diversification temporally coincide with paleoclimatic events in the Cenozoic. I use High Resolution X-ray Computed Tomography to characterize changes in the skull related to life in arid habitats, and apply maximum likelihood methods to test if the origins of those traits temporally coincide with significant shifts in habitat, diversification rates and climatic changes. My results show that African lacertids experienced three major peaks in diversification, accompanied by the evolution of suites of arid-adapted morphological traits. These changes coincide with climatic shifts in Africa, including the transition from closed forests to open grasslands and savanna in the late Oligocene, prior to the peak temperatures of the mid-Miocene Climatic Optimum, and following the formation of the Benguela current leading to hyper-aridity in southern Africa. I conclude that deserts are important centers for reptile evolution, but that expected changes in climate due to global warming may outpace the ability of arid-dwelling species to adapt and persist in the future.
Hipsley, C. & Himmelmann L. & Metzler D. & Müller J. (2009) - Integration of Bayesian molecular clock methods and fossil-based soft bounds reveals early Cenozoic origin of African lacertid lizards. - BMC Evolutionary Biology, 9: 151.
Background: Although current molecular clock methods offer greater flexibility in modelling evolutionary events, calibration of the clock with dates from the fossil record is still problematic for many groups. Here we implement several new approaches in molecular dating to estimate the evolutionary ages of Lacertidae, an Old World family of lizards with a poor fossil record and uncertain phylogeny. Four different models of rate variation are tested in a new program for Bayesian phylogenetic analysis called TreeTime, based on a combination of mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequences. We incorporate paleontological uncertainty into divergence estimates by expressing multiple calibration dates as a range of probabilistic distributions. We also test the reliability of our proposed calibrations by exploring effects of individual priors on posterior estimates. Results: According to the most reliable model, as indicated by Bayes factor comparison, modern lacertids arose shortly after the K/T transition and entered Africa about 45 million years ago, with the majority of their African radiation occurring in the Eocene and Oligocene. Our findings indicate much earlier origins for these clades than previously reported, and we discuss our results in light of paleogeographic trends during the Cenozoic. Conclusion: This study represents the first attempt to estimate evolutionary ages of a specific group of reptiles exhibiting uncertain phylogenetic relationships, molecular rate variation and a poor fossil record. Our results emphasize the sensitivity of molecular divergence dates to fossil calibrations, and support the use of combined molecular data sets and multiple, well-spaced dates from the fossil record as minimum node constraints. The bioinformatics program used here, TreeTime, is publicly available, and we recommend its use for molecular dating of taxa faced with similar challenges.
Hipsley, C.A. & Miles, D.B. & Müller, J. (2014) - Morphological disparity opposes latitudinal diversity gradient in lacertid lizards. - Biology Letters, London, 10 (5): 20140101.
While global variation in taxonomic diversity is strongly linked to latitude, the extent to which morphological disparity follows geographical gradients is less well known. We estimated patterns of lineage diversification, morphological disparity and rates of phenotypic evolution in the Old World lizard family Lacertidae, which displays a nearly inverse latitudinal diversity gradient with decreasing species richness towards the tropics. We found that lacertids exhibit relatively constant rates of lineage accumulation over time, although the majority of morphological variation appears to have originated during recent divergence events, resulting in increased partitioning of disparity within subclades. Among subclades, tropical arboreal taxa exhibited the fastest rates of shape change while temperate European taxa were the slowest, resulting in an inverse relationship between latitudinal diversity and rates of phenotypic evolution. This pattern demonstrates a compelling counterexample to the ecological opportunity theory of diversification, suggesting an uncoupling of the processes generating species diversity and morphological differentiation across spatial scales.
Huey, R.B. & Pianka, E.R. (1977) - Seasonal Variation in Thermoregulatory Behavior and Body Temperature of Diurnal Kalahari Lizards. - Ecology, 58 (5): 1066-1075.
We discuss seasonal variation in thermoregulatory behavior and its consequences on body temperature for 12 species of diurnal lizards in the southern Kalahari semidesert of Africa and also evaluate several methods of attempting to document thermoregulatory behavior using a descriptive data base. Lizards vary time of activity among seasons, which limits the variation in ambient conditions actually experienced. Ground-dwelling lizards and probably arboreal lizards move nonrandomly with respect to sun and shade; thus the percentage of lizards in sun in inversely proportional to air temperature. Arboreal lizards shift to higher perches at midday in summer and to logs or ground in winter thus decreasing and increasing incident heat loads, respectively. Both juveniles and adults of 3 species, only juveniles of 2 species, and only adults in 1 species are active in winter: both adults and juveniles of 6 species brumate [= hibernate]. Mean body temperature (T`b) varies within days and among months and is positively correlated with corresponding mean air temperature (T`a) in almost all species. Nonetheless, correlation and regression analysis suggests that thermoregulatory behaviors reduce the impact of variations in ambient conditions on Kalahari lizards. The mean T`b of different species reflect evolutionary relationships. In summer, mean T`b is proportional to the percentage of lizards in sun and with the tendency of lizards to be active only in summer. Thus, lizards with inferred low optimal temperatures are active during more months of the year.
Huey, R.B. & Pianka, E.R. (1981) - Ecological Consequences of Foraging Mode. - Ecology, 62 (4 ): 991-999.
Desert lizards are typically either widely foraging or sit-and-wait predators, and these foraging modes are correlated with major differences in ecology. Foraging mode is related to the type of prey eaten by lizards. Widely foraging lizards in the Kalahari desert, the Western Australian desert, and the North American desert generally eat more prey that are sedentary, unpredictably distributed, and clumped (e.g., termites) or that are large and inaccessible (inactive scorpions) than do sit-and-wait lizards. In contrast, sit-and-wait lizards eat more prey that are active. Foraging mode also appears to influence the types of predators that in turn eat the lizards. For example, a sit-and-wait snake eats predominately widely foraging lizards. Crossovers in foraging mode thus exist between trophic levels. Widely foraging lizards may also encounter predators more frequently, as suggested by analyses of relative tail lengths; but tail break frequencies are ambiguous. Daily maintenance energetic expenditures of widely foraging lizards appear to be about 1.3-1.5 times greater than those of sit-and-wait lizards in the same habitats, but gross food gains are about 1.3-2.1 times greater. Widely foraging species also have lower relative clutch volumes, apparently in response to enhanced risks of predation. Foraging mode within one species varies with changes in food availability. Physiology, morphology, and risk of predation might generally restrict the flexibility of foraging mode. Because foraging mode constrains numerous important aspects of ecology, any general model of foraging velocity must be complex.
Huey, R.B. & Pianka, E.R. (2007) - Historical introduction: on widely foraging for Kalahari lizards. - In: Lizard ecology: the evolutionary consequences of foraging mode. Cambridge University Press.
Huey, R.B. & Pianka, E.R. (2018) - Body temperature distributions of active diurnal lizards in three deserts: Skewed up or skewed down? - Functional Ecology, 32 (2): 334-344.
The performance of ectotherms integrated over time depends in part on the position and shape of the distribution of body temperatures (Tb) experienced during activity. For several complementary reasons, physiological ecologists have long expected that Tb distributions during activity should have a long left tail (left‐skewed), but only infrequently have they quantified the magnitude and direction of Tb skewness in nature. To evaluate whether left‐skewed Tb distributions are general for diurnal desert lizards, we compiled and analysed Tb (∑ = 9,023 temperatures) from our own prior studies of active desert lizards in three continents (25 species in Western Australia, 10 in the Kalahari Desert of Africa and 10 species in western North America). We gathered these data over several decades, using standardized techniques. Many species showed significantly left‐skewed Tb distributions, even when records were restricted to summer months. However, magnitudes of skewness were always small, such that mean Tb were never more than 1°C lower than median Tb. The significance of Tb skewness was sensitive to sample size, and power tests reinforced this sensitivity. The magnitude of skewness was not obviously related to phylogeny, desert, body size or median body temperature. Moreover, a formal phylogenetic analysis is inappropriate because geography and phylogeny are confounded (i.e. are highly collinear). Skewness might be limited if lizards pre‐warm inside retreats before emerging in the morning, emerge only when operative temperatures are high enough to speed warming to activity Tb, or if cold lizards are especially wary and difficult to spot or catch. Telemetry studies may help evaluate these possibilities.
Huey, R.B. & Pianka, E.R. & Hoffmann, J.A. (1977) - Seasonal variation in thermoregulatory behavior and body temperature of diurnal Kalahari lizards. - Ecology, 58: 1066-1075.
We discuss seasonal variation in thermoregulatory behavior and its consequences on body temperature for 12 species of diurnal lizards in the southern Kalahari semidesert of Africa and also evaluate several methods of attempting to document thermoregulatory behavior using a descriptive data base. Lizards vary time of activity among seasons, which limits the variation in ambient conditions actually experienced. Ground-dwelling lizards and probably arboreal lizards move nonrandomly with respect to sun and shade; thus the percentage of lizards in sun is inversely proportional to air temperature. Arboreal lizards shift to higher perches at midday in summer and to logs or ground in winter thus decreasing and increasing incident heat loads, respectively. Both juveniles and adults of 3 species, only juveniles of 2 species, and only adults in I species are active in winter: both adults and juveniles of 6 species brumate [= hibernate]. Mean body temperature (T,) varies within days and among months and is positively correlated with corresponding mean air temperature (T,) in almost all species. Nonetheless, correlation and regression analysis suggests that thermoregulatory behaviors reduce the impact of variations in ambient conditions on Kalahari lizards. The mean Tb of different species reflect evolutionary relationships. In summer, mean T i s proportional to the percentage of lizards in sun and with the tendency of lizards to be active only in summer. Thus, lizards with inferred low optimal temperatures are active during more months of the year.
Jacobsen, N.H.G. (1977) - An annotated checklist of the amphibians, reptiles and mammals of the Nylsvley nature reserve. - SANSP Report 21, December 1977. 71 pp.
A survey of the distribution, status and general ecology of amphibians, reptiles and mammals was undertaken on the Nylsvley Nature Reserve, Transvaal from mid-1974 to mid-1977 as part of the South African Savanna Ecosystem Project. A total of 18 frog, 3 tortoise, 1 terrapin, 23 lizard, 1 amphisbaenid, 29 snake and 62 mammal species were recorded on the Reserve. As new additions continued to be made late in the survey, it is clear that the checklist is not yet complete.
Kapli, P. & Poulakakis, N. & Lymberakis, P. & Mylonas, M. (2011) - A re-analysis of the molecular phylogeny of Lacertidae with currently available data. - Basic and Applied Herpetology, 25: 97-104.
the Lacertidae is one of the most diverse and widespread lizard families throughout Eurasia and Africa. Several studies so far have attempted to unravel the phylogeny of Lacertidae using morphological and mole- cular data. However, the intra-family relationships remain unclear. in an effort to explore the phylogenetic relationships within the family Lacertidae, a concatenated dataset of 5727 bp from six genes (two nuclear and four mitochondrial) and 40 genera was assembled based on GenBank database. Phylogenetic inference analy- ses were conducted using Maximum Parsimony (MP), Bayesian inference (Bi) and Maximum Likelihood (ML), revealing that even a combined dataset of both mitochondrial and nuclear genes is not able to resolve the phylogenetic relationships of the Lacertidae family under the tribe level.
Kennedy, A.M. & Marais, J. & Bauer , A.M. & Lewis, P.J. & Thies, M.L. (2012) - Effect of Fire on the Herpetofauna of the Koanaka Hills, Ngamiland, Botswana. - Check List, 8 (4): 666-674.
Ngamiland is one of the most remote regions in Botswana, and its herpetofauna is largely under-surveyed. This study documents the herpetofauna of the Koanaka Hills (KH) in Ngamiland in 2009 following extensive fire destruction and compares it to the pre-fire herpetofauna collected in 2008. We also provide new records for the region for three amphibian and six reptile species, and document vouchers for two taxa that were sighted but not collected in 2008. During 2009, 14 reptile and three amphibian species were collected, bringing the total number of confirmed herpetofaunal taxa near the KH to three amphibian and 19 reptile species. For seven species this is the first published occurrence in quarter degree square 2021 Aa. Analyses measuring changes in the KH herpetofauna following the fire are inconclusive due to differences in collection effort and weather conditions. However, these data suggest that fire impact was minimal.
Kirchhof, S. (2011) - Auf der Suche nach Lacertiden in Südafrika: Ergebnisse einer Reise in den Nordosten des Landes. - Die Eidechse, Magdeburg/Hamburg, 22 (3): 71-82.
Auf einer 4-wöchigen Reise in die Limpopo-Provinz Südafrikas wurden Individuen verschiedener Gattungen aus der Familie der Lacertidae nachgewiesen, welche je nach Lebensraum in verschiedenen Artengemeinschaften vorkamen. Nucras intertexta wurde in ungewöhnlichen Lebensräumen auf dem Soutpansberg gefunden, und genetische Untersuchungen dieser Exemplare sollen ihre systematische Stellung klären. In den Höhenlagen von Wolkberg und Blouberg wurden keine Lacertiden entdeckt, was aber höchstwahrscheinlich auf Sammlungs-Artefakte zurückzuführen ist.
Kirchhof, S. & Hetem, R.S. & Lease, H.M. & Miles, D.B. & Mitchell, D. & Müller, J. & Rödel, M.-O. & Sinervo, B. & Wassenaar, T. & Murray, I.W. (2017) - Thermoregulatory behavior and high thermal preference buffer impact of climate change in a Namib Desert lizard. - Ecosphere, 8 (12): 1-22.
Knowledge of the thermal ecology of a species can improve model predictions for temperatureinduced population collapse, which in light of climate change is increasingly important for species with limited distributions. Here, we use a multi-faceted approach to quantify and integrate the thermal ecology, properties of the thermal habitat, and past and present distribution of the diurnal, xeric-adapted, and active-foraging Namibian lizard Pedioplanis husabensis (Sauria: Lacertidae) to model its local extinction risk under future climate change scenarios. We asked whether climatic conditions in various regions of its range are already so extreme that local extirpations of P. husabensis have already occurred, or whether this micro-endemic species is adapted to these extreme conditions and uses behavior to mitigate the environmental challenges. To address this, we collected thermoregulation and climate data at a micro-scale level and combined it with micro- and macroclimate data across the species' range to model extinction risk. We found that P. husabensis inhabits a thermally harsh environment, but also has high thermal preference. In cooler parts of its range, individuals are capable of leaving thermally favorable conditions—based on the species' thermal preference—unused during the day, probably to maintain low metabolic rates. Furthermore, during the summer, we observed that individuals regulate at body temperatures below the species' high thermal preference to avoid body temperatures approaching the critical thermal maximum. We find that populations of this species are currently persisting even at the hottest localities within the species' geographic distribution. We found no evidence of range shifts since the 1960s despite a documented increase in air temperatures. Nevertheless, P. husabensis only has a small safety margin between the upper limit of its thermal preference and the critical thermal maximum and might undergo range reductions in the near future under even the most moderate climate change scenarios.
Kirchhof, S. & Penner, J. & Rödel, M.O. & Müller, J. (2017) - Resolution of the types, diagnostic features, and distribution of two easily confused Sand Lizards, Pedioplanis laticeps (Smith, 1845) and P. burchelli (Duméril & Bibron, 1839) (Squamata: Lacertidae). - Zootaxa, 4318 (1): 82-109.
Within the genus Pedioplanis the two basal species P. laticeps and P. burchelli are phenotypically similar. In this study we examine material of both species to determine diagnostic characters and we revise the distribution of Pedioplanis laticeps. For this we used data from museum collections, literature records, as well as results from our own surveys. Careful examination of the type material of P. laticeps and P. burchelli, as well as additional specimens, confirmed several morphological characters that distinguish between the two species. A reconstruction of the taxonomic history of the species revealed that P. laticeps was described in 1845, and not in 1844 or 1849 as commonly attributed. We designate a holotype for P. burchelli, a lectotype and two paralectotypes for P. laticeps, re-describe the types of P. laticeps and P. burchelli and correct previous misidentifications. Recent literature considers P. laticeps endemic to South Africa. However, 40-year-old museum records contain specimens sampled in Namibia. Surveys in Namibia confirmed at least one extant population of P. laticeps north of the Orange River, close to an area where they were previously collected. Natural history data is very scarce for both species and a comprehensive genetic analysis, covering the entire ranges of both taxa, is urgently needed to shed light on the evolutionary history of the two sister species.
Kirchhof, S. & Rödel, M.-O. & Mueller, J. (2016) - Does climate change drive extinction risk in Namibian lizards (Lacertidae). - Oral presentation, 12th Conference Herpetological Association of Africa. – African Herp News, Bloemfontein, South Africa, 63: 38.
Reptiles are supposed to be relatively invulnerable to the ongoing rapid anthropogenic climate change as they are able to actively regulate their body temperature (Tb) through behaviour, tolerate high Tb and resist water loss. However, recent studies have shown that lizards and snakes seem to be more at risk than previously expected. In Mexico, increased local extinction probability in lizards correlated with the magnitude of warming during the reproductive period, questioning the assumption of climate invulnerability. We tested the hypothesis that different lizard species of the family Lacertidae are vulnerable to rises in maximum temperatures in Namibia, especially in the Namib and the Kalahari. We predicted that inhabiting different habitats with different microhabitat temperatures and different preferred Tb within different distribution ranges would result in differences in local extinction probability. As opposed to other studies our model integrates past and present distributions verified by museum collections and ground-truthed, a quantifiable physiological parameter (preferred body temperature Tpref) and available operative temperatures in correlation to air temperatures. Data was collected for 17 species (Meroles anchietae, M. cuneirostris, M. suborbitalis, M. ctenodactylus, M. reticulatus, M. micropholidotus, M. knoxii, Pedioplanis namaquensis, P. laticeps, P. lineoocellata, P. breviceps, P. rubens, P. undata, P. inornata, P. gaerdesi, P. husabensis and Heliobolus lugubris). Our first results seem to indicate that populations of at least one of the tested species were extirpated (both predicted by the model and verified) in the hottest area of its distribution range due to increased maximum temperatures during the reproductive season since the mid-1970s. Furthermore, different extents in future extinction risk are predicted under consideration of the currently accepted climate change scenarios. It seems that Namibian Lacertidae under current conditions already live at their thermal maximum.
Kretzschmar, K.G. (1995) - Über Wurminfektionen bei Eidechsen und deren Behandlung - Die Eidechse, Heft 15 (1995), S. 22-25
Es wird Ober die Gefahr des Befalls von Eidechsen durch Würmer, vor allem durch Nematoden und Cestoden, berichtet. Ansteckungsmöglichkeiten, Erkennen der Infektion und deren Behandlung werden beschrieben.
Lewin, A. & Feldman, A. & Bauer, A.M. & Belmaker, J. & Broadley, D.G. & Chirio, L. & Itescu, Y. & LeBreton, M. & Maza, E. & Meirte, D.& Nagy, Z.T. & Novosolov, M. & Roll, U. & Tallowin, O. & Trape, J.-F. & Vidan, E. & Meiri, S. (2016) - Patterns of species richness, endemism and environmental gradients of African reptiles. - Journal of Biogeography, 43 (12): 2380-2390.
Aim To map and assess the richness patterns of reptiles (and included groups: amphisbaenians, crocodiles, lizards, snakes and turtles) in Africa, quantify the overlap in species richness of reptiles (and included groups) with the other terrestrial vertebrate classes, investigate the environmental correlates underlying these patterns, and evaluate the role of range size on richness patterns. Location Africa. Methods We assembled a data set of distributions of all African reptile species. We tested the spatial congruence of reptile richness with that of amphibians, birds and mammals. We further tested the relative importance of temperature, precipitation, elevation range and net primary productivity for species richness over two spatial scales (ecoregions and 1° grids). We arranged reptile and vertebrate groups into range-size quartiles in order to evaluate the role of range size in producing richness patterns. Results Reptile, amphibian, bird and mammal richness are largely congruent (r = 0.79–0.86) and respond similarly to environmental variables (mainly productivity and precipitation). Ecoregion size accounts for more variation in the richness of reptiles than in that of other groups. Lizard distributions are distinct with several areas of high species richness where other vertebrate groups (including snakes) are species-poor, especially in arid ecoregions. Habitat heterogeneity is the best predictor of narrow-ranging species, but remains relatively important in explaining lizard richness even for species with large range sizes. Main conclusions Reptile richness varies with similar environmental variables as the other vertebrates in Africa, reflecting the disproportionate influence of snakes on reptile richness, a result of their large ranges. Richness gradients of narrow-ranged vertebrates differ from those of widespread taxa, which may demonstrate different centres of endemism for reptile subclades in Africa. Lizard richness varies mostly with habitat heterogeneity independent of range size, which suggests that the difference in response of lizards is due to their ecological characteristics. These results, over two spatial scales and multiple range-size quartiles, allow us to reliably interpret the influence of environmental variables on patterns of reptile richness and congruency.
Lichtenstein, H. & Martens, E. von (1856) - Nomenclator reptilium et amphibiorum musei zoologici Berolinensis. - Königlichen Akademie der Wissenschaften, Berlin. 48 pp.
Loehr, V. (1997) - Herpetologische waarnemingen in Zuid-Afrika en Namibië. - Lacerta, 55 (5): 187-200.
In both December 1992 and September 1995 I travelled through South Africa and Namibia. In the Daan Viljoen park in Windhoek Agama planiceps, Mabuya spilogaster and Pachydac- tylus bibroni were found. Pedioplanis brevi- ceps was seen in trees and bushes of the Namib Desert while in the barer valleys Pedioplanis undata undata was observed. A Chamaeleo namaquensis was seen in a small bush. Other species which were recorded were M. spilogaster and Ptenopus garrulus macula- Ius. In the Kalahari Gemsbokpark only M. spi- logaster, Agama aculeata aculeata and Pelomedusa subrufa were seen, the latter after a shower. Pedioplanis undata inomata, Mabuya sulcata, Mabuya variegata, Platysaurus capensis, Agama anchietae, Pedioplanis namaquensis, Cordylus po/yzonus and Pachydactylus bibroni were found in Fish River Canyon by the camp site. The tempera- ture can rise to 45°C over the day. The lizards seemed to go into shock when captured. In 1995 I spent a long time in Namaqualand. Here a lot of reptiles were found in a relative- ly small area. These included: Cordylus cataphractus, Cordylus polyzonus, Pediopla- nis lineocellata pulchella, Meroles suborbi- talis, Agama hispida hispida, Bitis arietans, Homopus signatus signatus and Chersina angulata. In the Mediterranean climatic zone and in the Karoo the following unusual species were recorded: Psammo- bates tentorius trimeni, Geochelone parda- lis and Pseudocordy/us capensis.
Loveridge, A. (1936) - African reptiles and amphibians in Field Museum of Natural History. - Lacertidae. - Publication (Field Museum of Natural History), 22 (1): 59-63.
Makokha, J.S. (2006) - Molecular Phylogenetics and Phylogeography of sand lizards, Pedioplanis (Sauria: Lacertidae) in southern Africa. - Thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Masters of Science (Zoology) at the University of Stellenbosch. 99 pp.
The present study aims to determine the phylogenetic relationships among the sand lizards, Pedioplanis. In addition, a single mitochondrial gene is used to investigate the geographic genetic structure of the widey distributed P. burchelli. With 11 species, Pedioplanis is the most speciose genus among the southern African genera of the family Lacertidae. All the species are restricted to the subcontinent with the exception of three (P. namaquensis, P. undata and P. benguellensis), which extend their range northwards into Angola. A total of 2200 nucleotide positions derived from two mitochondrial markers (ND2 and 16S rRNA) and one nuclear gene (RAG-1) are used to determine the phylogenetic relationships among ten of the eleven Pedioplanis species. The first well resolved gene tree for the genus, drawn from 100 individuals, is presented and this is largely congruent with a phylogeny derived from morphology. Contrary to some previous suggestions, Pedioplanis forms a monophyletic assemblage with Heliobolus and Nucras. The genus Pedioplanis is monophyletic with P. burchelli/P. laticeps forming a sister clade to all the remaining congeners. Two distinct geographic lineages can be identified within the widespread P. namaquensis; one occurs in Namibia, while the other occurs in South Africa. The "P. undata" species complex is monophyletic, but one of its constituent species, P. inornata, is paraphyletic. Relationships among the subspecies of P. lineoocellata are much more complex than previously documented. An isolated population previously assigned to P. l. pulchella is paraphyletic and sister to the three named subspecies. The phylogeny identifies two biogeographical groupings that probably diverged during the mid-Miocene. The development of the Benguella Current could have initiated isolation mechanisms associated with changes in habitat that could have generated barriers and played a role in the evolution of this group. At the lower taxonomic level, the mtDNA phylogeographic structure of the wide spread P. burchelli in South Africa reveal at least six distinct clades that are geographically partitioned. The first one is restricted to the eastern mountains along the Great Escarpment (GE). The next three are found along the Cape Fold Mountains (CFM): the north-west CFM, central CFM and eastern CFM. The fifth one shares samples from central CFM and GE. The last clade is restricted to the eastern central mountains of the GE. These six geographic groupings are genetically divergent from each other and they started separating in the early Pliocene period. Phylogeographic studies on other taxa in the region have found different levels of genetic structuring among or within taxa. The fact that P. burchelli is restricted to high altitude areas could have resulted in limited dispersal and consequently contributed to its geographic structure. However, the exact cause of the pattern obtained is not readily apparent. Habitat fragmentation in the past is probably one of the most influential factors shaping the genetic distribution of the species across South Africa. The inclusion of nuclear markers will shed more light on the evolutionary history of P. burchelli in South Africa.
Makokha, J.S. & Bauer, A.M. & Mayer, W. & Matthee, C.A. (2007) - Nuclear and mtDNA-based phylogeny of southern African sand lizards, Pedioplanis (Sauria: Lacertidae). - Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution, 44 (2): 622-633.
The diversity of lacertid lizards in Africa is highest in the southern African subcontinent, where over two-thirds of the species are endemic. With eleven currently recognized species, Pedioplanis is the most diverse among the southern African genera. In this study we use 2200 nucleotide positions derived from two mitochondrial markers (ND2 and 16S rRNA) and one nuclear gene (RAG-1) to (i) assess the phylogeny of Pedioplanis and (ii) estimate divergence time among lineages using the relaxed molecular clock method. Individual analyses of each gene separately supported different nodes in the phylogeny and the combined analysis yielded more well supported relationships. We present the first, well-resolved gene tree for the genus Pedioplanis and this is largely congruent with a phylogeny derived from morphology. Contrary to previous suggestions Heliobolus/Nucras are sister to Pedioplanis. The genus Pedioplanis is monophyletic, with P. burchelli/P. laticeps forming a clade that is sister to all the remaining congeners. Two distinct geographic lineages can be identified within the widespread P. namaquensis; one occurs in Namibia, while the other occurs in South Africa. The P. undata species complex is monophyletic, but one of its constituent species, P. inornata, is paraphyletic. Relationships among the subspecies of P. lineoocellata are much more complex than previously documented. An isolated population previously assigned to P. l. pulchella is paraphyletic and sister to the three named subspecies. The phylogeny identifies two biogeographical clades that probably diverged during the mid-Miocene, after the development of the Benguella Current. This probably led to habitat changes associated with climate and, in conjunction with physical barriers (Great Escarpment), contributed towards speciation within the genus Pedioplanis.
Marais, J. (2006) - Field Trip to Namibia & Namaqualand. - http://www.johanmarais.co.za/TripNamibiaNamaqualand.htm
Marais, J. (2008) - Field trip to Koanaka Hills, Botswana with Aaron Bauer and Dan Portik – June 2008 - http://www.johanmarais.co.za/TripBotswanaJune08.htm
Marais, J. (2009) - Trip to Caprivi/Namibia with Aaron Bauer and Bill Branch. - http://www.johanmarais.co.za
Marais, J. (2009) - Trip to Koanaka Hills, Botswana. - http://www.johanmarais.co.za
Mayer, W. (1989) - Comments on SZCZERBAK´s (1975) catalogue of the African sand lizards (Reptilia: Sauria: Eremiainae). - Herpetozoa, Wien, 1 (3/4): 133-137.
Taxonomic changes and new findings concerning the subfamily Eremiainae in Africa are summarized to update SZCZERBAK`s (1975) catalogue of the African Sand Lizards. Furthermore, a key to the species and subspecies of the genus Pedioplanis is provided.
Mayer, W. & Benyr, G. (1994) - Albumin-Evolution und Phylogenese in der Familie Lacertidae. - Annalen des Naturhistorischen Museums in Wien, 96 B: 621-648.
Die Albumine von 41 Arten der Familie Lacertidae, die einen maßgeblichen Anteil der Gattungen sowie von infragenerischen Gruppen der Sammelgattung Lacerta s.l. repräsentieren, wurden mittels der MC`F- Technik untersucht. Die Daten gestatten eine zeitliche Abschätzung der wesentlichsten Radiationsereignisse und deren Korrelation mit paläogeographischen Gegebenheiten. Unsere Resultate stehen zum Teil in bemer- kenswertem Widerspruch zu Ergebnissen von ARNOLD (1989a), die auf der Analyse vor allem morphologischer Merkmale beruhen. Im wesentlichen ergaben sich folgende phylogenetische Beziehungen: 1. Die Gattungen Gallona und Psammodromus sind bereits seit dem Oligozän von den übrigen Taxa isoliert. Wir taxieren diese beiden Hauptäste als Unterfamilien Gallotiinae und Lacertinae. 2. Lacerta s.str. und Lacerta Subgenus Zootoca stehen gemeinsam den restlichen Lacertinae als Schwestergruppe gegenüber. 3. Eine Besiedlung Afrikas im unteren Miozän führte zu einer Auftrennung in zwei Linien mit hauptsächlich eurasischen beziehungsweise afrikanischen Vertetern. 4. ARNOLD`S (I.e.) `Ethiopian and advanced Saharo-Eurasian clade` erweist sich als paraphyletische Einheit, denn ein Teil der Gattungen ist eng mit europäischen Formen verwandt. Alle bisher in der Lacertidensystematik eingesetzten Methoden werden kritisch diskutiert. Eine Hypothese zur raum-zeitlichen Erklärung der Phylogenie der Lacertidae wird präsentiert.
Mayer, W. & Berger-Dell´Mour, H. (1987) - The Pedioplanis undata complex (Sauria, Lacertidae) in Namibia. A system of parapatric species and subspecies. - In: Gelder J.J. van, H. Strijbosch & P.J.M. Bergers (eds.): Proceedings of the 4th Ordinary General Meeting of the Societas Europaea Herpetologica, Nijmegen. 275-278.
Mayer, W. & Berger-Dell´Mour, H. (1988) - Proteinelektrophoretische Untersuchungen zur Systematik der Gattungen Aporosaura, Meroles, Pedioplanis und Heliobolus (Sauria: Lacertidae) aus Südwest-Afrika. - Herpetozoa, Wien, 1 (1/2): 23-29.
13 Arten der Gattungen Aporosaura, Meroles, Pedioplanis und Heliobolus aus Namibia undzusätzlich Pedioplanis burchelliaus der Republik Südafrika wurden mittels Proteinelek- trophorese hinsichtlich 14 genetischer Loci untersucht. Pedioplanis und Meroles erweisen sich als Schwesterngruppen, Heliobolus und Aporosaura stehen weiter abseits. Die beiden Subgenera von Meroles (Meroless. str. und Saurites) lassen sich nicht voneinander abgrenzen. Die morphologischen Übereinstimmungen zwischen Aporosaura und Saurites werden als konvergente Anpassungen an ihren Lebensraum interpretiert.
Mayer, W. & Böhme, W. (2000) - Case 3085: Lacerta undata A. Smith, 1838 (Currently Pedioplanis undata; Reptilia, Sauria): proposed conservation of the specific name by the designation of a neotype. - Bulletin of Zoological Nomenclature, 57 (2): 100-102.
Mayer, W. & Pavlicev, M. (2007) - The phylogeny of the family Lacertidae (Reptilia) based on nuclear DNA sequences: Convergent adaptations to arid habitats within the subfamily Eremiainae. - Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution, 44: 1155–1163.
The family Lacertidae encompasses more than 250 species distributed in the Palearctis, Ethiopis and Orientalis. Lacertids have been subjected in the past to several morphological and molecular studies to establish their phylogeny. However, the problems of convergent adaptation in morphology and of excessively variable molecular markers have hampered the establishment of well supported deeper phylogenetic relationships. Particularly the adaptations to xeric environments have often been used to establish a scenario for the origin and radiation of major lineages within lacertids. Here we present a molecular phylogenetic study based on two nuclear marker genes and representatives of 37 lacertid genera and distinct species groups (as in the case of the collective genus Lacerta). Roughly 1600 bp of the nuclear rag1 and c-mos genes were sequenced and analyzed. While the results provide good support to the hitherto suggested main subfamilies of Gallotiinae (Gallotia and Psammodromus), Eremiainae and Lacertinae [Harris, D.J., Arnold, E.N., Thomas, R.H., 1998. Relationships of lacertid lizards (Reptilia: Lacertidae) estimated from mitochondrial DNA sequences and morphology. Proc. R. Soc. Lond. B 265, 1939–1948], they also suggest unexpected relationships. In particular, the oriental genus Takydromus, previously considered the sister-group to the three subfamilies, is nested within Lacertinae. Moreover, the genera within the Eremiainae are further divided into two groups, roughly corresponding to their respective geographical distributions in the Ethiopian and the Saharo-Eurasian ranges. The results support an independent origin of adaptations to xeric conditions in different subfamilies. The relationships within the subfamily Lacertinae could not be resolved with the markers used. The species groups of the collective genus Lacerta show a bush-like topology in the inferred Bayesian tree, suggesting rapid radiation. The composition of the subfamilies Eremiainae and Lacertinae as well as their phylogeography are discussed.
Mayer, W. & Richter, K. (1990) - Die Wüstenrenner-Eidechsen Namibias – Vorkommen, Pflege und Zucht. - herpetofauna, 12 (66): 21-30.
Die Wüstenrenner-Eidechsen Namibias werden derzeit in folgende vier Gattungen eingeteilt: Pedioplanis, Meroles, Aporosaura und Heliobolus. Während zweier Reisen konnten sie im Freiland studiert werden. Im Terrarium wurden sieben Arten gehalten, von denen vier Arten nachgezüchtet werden konnten. Neben Pedioplanis rubens, P. lineoocellata pulchella und P. namaquensis erweist sich vor allem Meroles cuneirostris als ein sehr gut zu haltendes, interessantes Terrarientier.
McAllister, C.T. & Bursey, C.R. & Freed, P.S. (2010) - Nematode Parasites of Some Reptiles (Sauria: Testudines: Ophidia) From the Northern and Western Cape Provinces, South Africa. - Journal of Parasitology, Lawrence, 96 (5): 1021-1026.
One hundred and seven reptiles (11 families, 32 species) from the Northern and Western Cape Provinces of South Africa were examined for helminths. Twenty-three (22%) individual reptiles were found to harbor at least 1 species of nematode; 3 (7%) reptiles harbored multiple infections of 2 nematode species. Eight species within 5 families of Nematoda were found in the reptiles surveyed including 1 atractid, 1 diaphanocephalid, 1 heterakid, 3 pharyngodonids, and 2 physalopterans. Ten new host records are reported. A summary of the nematode parasites identified from South African reptiles is provided.
McAllister, C.T. & Bursey, C.R. & Freed, P.S. (2011) - Endoparasites (Cestoidea, Nematoda, Pentastomida) of Reptiles (Sauria, Ophidia) from the Republic of Namibia. - Comparative Parasitology, Washington, 78 (1): 140-151.
Two hundred twenty-two individual reptiles (11 families, 45 species) from 17 districts of Namibia were examined for endoparasites. Thirty-three (31 lizards, 2 snakes) individuals (15%) were found to harbor at least 1 species of helminth; 4 lizards harbored a multiple infection of 2 helminths, 1 lizard was infected with 3 species, and 1 lizard harbored a multiple infection of 5 species. One species of linstowiid cestode, 12 species of nematodes representing 6 families, and 1 species of cephalobaenid pentastomid were found in the herpetofauna surveyed. Twenty-seven new host and 8 new geographic records are documented for helminths of Namibian reptiles.
McBrayer, L.D. (2004) - The relationship between skull morphology, biting performance and foraging mode in Kalahari lacertid lizards. - Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, 140 (3): 403-416.
Lizards are a diverse clade in which one radiation consists entirely of sit-and-wait foragers and another consists of wide foragers. Lizards utilizing these two foraging modes are known to differ in diet, but little is known about how feeding morphology relates to diet and/or foraging mode. This study tested the hypothesis that skull morphology and biting performance are related to diet preference, and consequently, coevolve with foraging mode. Four species of lacertid lizard were studied because they vary in foraging mode, their phylogenetic relationships are known and they are well studied ecologically. Using an 'ecomorphological' approach, skull morphology and biting performance were quantified and mapped on to the phylogeny for the species. The results indicate that sit-and-wait species have shorter, wider skulls than the wide foraging species, and that all are significantly different in overall head shape. The sit-and-wait species had similar values for biting performance; however, clear phylogenetic patterns of covariation were not present between sit-and-wait and wide foraging species for either biting performance or skull morphology. Thus, skull morphology and performance have little influence on diet and foraging mode in these species. Instead it is likely that other factors such as seasonal prey availability and/or life history strategy shape foraging mode decisions.
McBrayer, L.D. & Wylie, J.E. (2009) - Concordance between locomotor morphology and foraging mode in lacertid lizards - Zoology, 112 (5): 370–378.
Foraging behaviors exist along a continuum from highly sedentary, ambush foraging, to more continuous searching, or active foraging. Foraging strategies, or modes, are defined based upon locomotor behaviors (e.g. percent time moving, moves per minute). In lizards, traits correlated with ambush and active foraging have been of interest for some time; however, general patterns of correlated evolution between locomotor morphology and locomotor behavior have only recently begun to be quantified. In this study, variation in hindlimb morphology is investigated in a model group of lizard species that vary between active foraging and more sedentary (or mixed) foraging mode. Canonical variates analysis reveals that the two active foraging species occupy similar regions of the morphospace, while the two more sedentary species occupy different regions. The active foraging species have a narrow pelvis with shorter tibia and femora. The more sedentary species have a wide pelvis, long tibia and femora, and slightly longer metatarsals. Phylogenetic patterns of trait variation were examined through ancestral character state reconstruction and show morphological shifts in concert with foraging mode in these species. The observed shifts in locomotor morphology are discussed in light of published data on sprint speed and endurance in these species. Together, the data show that linking morphological variation to variation in stride length and stride frequency is critical to understanding the evolution of locomotor performance. Much more stride length and frequency data are needed among ambush, mixed, and active foraging species because these parameters, and their morphological components, are likely correlated with variation in food acquisition mode.
Méhely, L. (1909) - Materialien zu einer Systematik und Phylogenie der Muralis-ähnlichen Lacerten. - Annales historico-naturales Musei nationalis hungarici, Budapest, 7: 409-621
Meik, J.M. & Jeoc, R.M. & Mendelson III, J.R. & Jenks, K.E. (2002) - Effects of bush encroachment on an assemblage of diurnal lizard species in central Namibia. - Biological Conservation, 106 (1): 29-36.
ush encroachment is a serious environmental and economic problem in Namibia, but little is known about impacts on native reptile diversity. Area-confined visual surveys were used to examine a diurnal lizard assemblage in central Namibian commercial ranchlands. Surveys were conducted in plots of open savanna habitat and proximal bush-encroached habitat. The following four species comprised 97.5% of all lizard observations: Pedioplanis undata, Mabuya varia, M. striata, and Lygodactylus bradfieldi. Pedioplanis undata was terrestrial, and the remaining three species were largely arboreal in our study plots. Mabuya varia was found in all savanna plots but was absent from all bush-encroached plots. Two species (P. undata and L. bradfieldi) were less abundant in bush-encroached plots. One species (M. striata) was more abundant in bush-encroached plots than in open savanna plots. Arboreal lizards demonstrated an avoidance to invasive woody plant species. Decreased diversity of habitat structure in bush-encroached habitats appears to influence native savanna lizard assemblages. Our results are consistent with accumulating evidence suggesting that bush encroachment and its associated ecological impacts are reorganizing savanna ecosystems throughout southern Africa.
Meiri, S. (2008) - Evolution and ecology of lizard body sizes. - Global Ecology and Biogeography, 17 (6): 724-734.
Aim Body size is instrumental in influencing animal physiology, morphology, ecology and evolution, as well as extinction risk. I examine several hypotheses regarding the influence of body size on lizard evolution and extinction risk, assessing whether body size influences, or is influenced by, species richness, herbivory, island dwelling and extinction risk. Location World-wide. Methods I used literature data and measurements of museum and live specimens to estimate lizard body size distributions. Results I obtained body size data for 99% of the world`s lizard species. The body size–frequency distribution is highly modal and right skewed and similar distributions characterize most lizard families and lizard assemblages across biogeographical realms. There is a strong negative correlation between mean body size within families and species richness. Herbivorous lizards are larger than omnivorous and carnivorous ones, and aquatic lizards are larger than non-aquatic species. Diurnal activity is associated with small body size. Insular lizards tend towards both extremes of the size spectrum. Extinction risk increases with body size of species for which risk has been assessed. Main conclusions Small size seems to promote fast diversification of disparate body plans. The absence of mammalian predators allows insular lizards to attain larger body sizes by means of release from predation and allows them to evolve into the top predator niche. Island living also promotes a high frequency of herbivory, which is also associated with large size. Aquatic and nocturnal lizards probably evolve large size because of thermal constraints. The association between large size and high extinction risk, however, probably reflects a bias in the species in which risk has been studied.
Meiri, S. & Bauer, A.M. & Chirio, L. & Colli, G.R. & Das, I. & Doan, T.M. & Feldman, A. & Herrera, F.-C. & Novosolov, M. & Pafilis, P. Pincheira-Donoso, D. & Powney, G. & Torres-Carvajal, O. & Uetz, P. & Van Damme, R. (2013) - Are lizards feeling the heat? A tale of ecology and evolution under two temperatures. - Global Ecology and Biogeography, 22: 834-845.
Aim Temperature influences most components of animal ecology and life history – but what kind of temperature? Physiologists usually examine the influence of body temperatures, while biogeographers and macroecologists tend to focus on environmental temperatures. We aim to examine the relationship between these two measures, to determine the factors that affect lizard body temperatures and to test the effect of both temperature measures on lizard life history. Location World-wide. Methods We used a large (861 species) global dataset of lizard body temperatures, and the mean annual temperatures across their geographic ranges to examine the relationships between body and mean annual temperatures.We then examined factors influencing body temperatures, and tested for the influence of both on ecological and life-history traits while accounting for the influence of shared ancestry. Results Body temperatures and mean annual temperatures are uncorrelated. However, accounting for activity time (nocturnal species have low body temperatures), use of space (fossorial and semi-aquatic species are 'colder'), insularity (mainland species are 'hotter') and phylogeny, the two temperatures are positively correlated. High body temperatures are only associated with larger hatchlings and increased rates of biomass production. Annual temperatures are positively correlated with clutch frequency and annual longevity, and negatively correlated with clutch size, age at first reproduction and longevity. Main conclusions Lizards with low body temperatures do not seem to have 'slower' life-history attributes than species with high body temperatures. The longer seasons prevalent in warm regions, and physiological processes that operate while lizards are inactive (but warm enough), make environmental temperatures better predictors of lizard life-history variation than body temperatures. This surprisingly greater effect of environmental temperatures on lizard life histories hints that global warming may have a profound influence on lizard ecology and evolution.
Meiri, S. & Brown, J.H. & Sibly, R.M. (2011) - The ecology of lizard reproductive output. - Global Ecology and Biogeography, 21 (5): 592-602.
Aim We provide a new quantitative analysis of lizard reproductive ecology. Comparative studies of lizard reproduction to date have usually considered life-history components separately. Instead, we examine the rate of production (productivity hereafter) calculated as the total mass of offspring produced in a year. We test whether productivity is influenced by proxies of adult mortality rates such as insularity and fossorial habits, by measures of temperature such as environmental and body temperatures, mode of reproduction and activity times, and by environmental productivity and diet. We further examine whether low productivity is linked to high extinction risk. Location World-wide. Methods We assembled a database containing 551 lizard species, their phylogenetic relationships and multiple life history and ecological variables from the literature. We use phylogenetically informed statistical models to estimate the factors related to lizard productivity. Results Some, but not all, predictions of metabolic and life-history theories are supported. When analysed separately, clutch size, relative clutch mass and brood frequency are poorly correlated with body mass, but their product – productivity – is well correlated with mass. The allometry of productivity scales similarly to metabolic rate, suggesting that a constant fraction of assimilated energy is allocated to production irrespective of body size. Island species were less productive than continental species.Mass-specific productivity was positively correlated with environmental temperature, but not with body temperature. Viviparous lizards were less productive than egg-laying species. Diet and primary productivity were not associated with productivity in any model. Other effects, including lower productivity of fossorial, nocturnal and active foraging species were confounded with phylogeny. Productivity was not lower in species at risk of extinction. Main conclusions Our analyses show the value of focusing on the rate of annual biomass production (productivity), and generally supported associations between productivity and environmental temperature, factors that affect mortality and the number of broods a lizard can produce in a year, but not with measures of body temperature, environmental productivity or diet.
Mertens, R. (1954) - Description of Pedioplanis rubens. - In: "Neue Eidechsen aus Südwest-Afrika". – Senckenbergiana, Frankfurt/Main, 34 (4/6): 175-183.
Mertens, R. (1954) - Description of Pedioplanis gaerdesi. - In: "Neue Eidechsen aus Südwest-Afrika". – Senckenbergiana, Frankfurt/Main, 34 (4/6): 175-183.
Mertens, R. (1955) - Description of Pedioplanis lineoocellata inocellata. - In: "Die Amphibien und Reptilien Südwestafrikas. Aus den Ergebnissen einer im Jahre 1952 ausgeführten Reise". - Abhandlungen der Senckenbergischen Naturforschenden Gesellschaft (Frankfurt), 490: 1-172, Taf. 1-24.
Mertens, R. (1971) - Die Herpetofauna Südwest-Afrikas. - Abhandlungen der Senckenbergischen Naturforschenden Gesellschaft, 529: 1-110.
Meyer, A. & Fras, P. le & Mucina, L. (2010) - The biogeographical influence of the Tankwa Karoo Basin on reptile distribution in south-western South Africa. - African Journal of Herpetology, Johannesburg, South Africa, 59 (1): 53 - 64.
Point distribution data were used to evaluate the biogeographical influence of the arid Tankwa Karoo Basin on the distribution of reptiles in the south-western districts of South Africa. Under-representation of the Tankwa Karoo in the dataset required an additional field survey of this region. Prior to the survey, available records from the Tankwa Karoo Basin represented only 13 reptile species. A total of 36 species (24 lizards, nine snakes, three chelonians) was recorded during our survey of this area. Turnover across the Basin is high, species richness is lower than in surrounding mountainous areas and there are no species endemic to the area. The Tankwa Karoo Basin acts as a dispersal barrier for many reptile species occurring in the surrounding more mesic areas. At the same time, the ranges of a number of typical northern, arid-adapted species extend southward along the Tankwa plains. A number of species range extensions in the region are reported.
Murray, I.W. & Fuller, A. & Lease, H.M. & Mitchell, D. & Hetem, R.S. (2016) - Ecological niche separation of two sympatric insectivorous lizard species in the Namib Desert. - Journal of Arid Emvironments, 124: 225-232.
Individual lizard species may reduce competition within a habitat by diverging along one or more niche dimensions, such as spatial, temporal or dietary dimensions. We compared the morphology, activity patterns, microhabitat characteristics, thermal biology and feeding ecology of two species of diurnally active sympatric insectivorous lizards in the Namib Desert, the Husab sand lizard, Pedioplanis husabensis, and Bradfield`s Namib day gecko, Rhoptropus bradfieldi. Pedioplanis husabensis and R. bradfieldi had similar snout-vent lengths (49–52 mm), but P. husabensis (2.5–3.0 g) weighed less than R. bradfieldi (3.1–3.9 g). The actively foraging Pedioplanis husabensis specialized on a termite diet (71% of all prey, found in 91% of fecal pellets), while the sedentary sit-and-wait foraging R. bradfieldi specialized on ants (87% of all prey, found in 100% of fecal pellets). Pedioplanis husabensis also had a higher active body temperature and often was found on warmer substrates than was R. bradfieldi. Despite occurring in the same habitat, these two lizard species do not occupy the same ecological niche space.
Murray, I.W. & Fuller, A. & Lease, H.M. & Mitchell, D. & Wolf, B.O. & Heten, R.S. (2014) - The actively foraging desert lizard Pedioplanis husabensis (Husab Sand Lizard) behaviorally optimizes its energetic economy. - Canadian Journal of Zoology, 92 (10): 905–913.
The Husab Sand Lizard (Pedioplanis husabensis Berger-Dell'Mour and Mayer, 1989) is a recently described lacertid lizard endemic to a small region in the central Namib Desert. Although this species is of conservation concern, very little is known about how this lizard functions in its environment. We used the doubly labeled water method to measure the field energetics in this lizard species and we report on its foraging behavior. Pedioplanis husabensis had summer field metabolic rates (330 ± 140 J•d−1) that were similar to those of other similarly sized sit-and-wait foraging lizards (360 J•d−1), but only 43% that of an active foraging lizard of the same mass (770 J•d−1), despite using a movement-intensive, active foraging strategy. Additionally, the mean water influx rate (0.06 ± 0.03 mL•d−1) was 67% that of a desert reptile of the same size (0.09 mL•d−1). Active body temperatures were significantly lower in summer (34.3 ± 1.7 °C) than they were in autumn (36.8 ± 1.6 °C), and daily activity of lizards increased from 2.6 ± 0.9 h•d−1 in summer to 4.3 ± 1.9 h•d−1 in autumn. Relative to other species of actively foraging desert lizards, P. husabensis has lower energy requirements.
Murray, I.W. & Lease, H.M. & Hetem, R.S. & Mitchell, D. & Fuller, A. & Woodborne, S. (2016) - Stable isotope analysis of diet confirms niche separation of two sympatric species of Namib Desert lizard. - Integrative Zoology, 11 (1): 60-75.
We used stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen to study the trophic niche of two species of insectivorous lizards, the Husab sand lizard Pedioplanis husabensis and Bradfield`s Namib day gecko living sympatrically in the Namib Desert. We measured the δ13C and δ15N ratios in lizard blood tissues with different turnover times (whole blood, red blood cells and plasma) to investigate lizard diet in different seasons. We also measured the δ13C and δ15N ratios in available arthropod prey and plant tissues on the site, to identify the avenues of nutrient movement between lizards and their prey. Through the use of stable isotope mixing models, we found that the two lizard species relied on a largely non-overlapping but seasonally variable array of arthropods: P. husabensis primarily fed on termites, beetles and wasps, while R. bradfieldi fed mainly on ants, wasps and hemipterans. Nutrients originating from C3 plants were proportionally higher for R. bradfieldi than for P. husabensis during autumn and late autumn/early winter, although not summer. Contrary to the few available data estimating the trophic transfer of nutrients in ectotherms in mixed C3 and C4/crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) plant landscapes, we found that our lizard species primarily acquired nutrients that originated from C4/CAM plants. This work adds an important dimension to the general lack of studies using stable isotope analyses to estimate lizard niche partitioning and resource use.
Nemes, S. (2002) - Foraging mode of the Sand Lizard, Lacerta agilis, at the beginning of its yearly activity period. - Russian Journal of Herpetology, Moscow, 9 (1): 57-62.
At the beginning of its yearly activity period Lacerta agilis behaves as an ambush foraging lizard. Propor- tion of attacks on prey discovered while lizards are moving (PAM), movement per minute (MPM) and percent of time spent moving (PTM) are low. A correlation was found between MPM and PTM. There are no significant differences between PTM and MPM among sexes or age categories. Prey search locomotion is rarely used and is discontinuous when it occurs. Pause duration has a positive correlation with move- ment length. Lizards counterbalance long movements with longer pauses in order to increase the probabil- ity of prey detection and capture. Contrary to other ambush foraging lizards, Lacerta agilis frequently tongue flicks, probably in order to detect and identify prey animals.
Nkosi, W.T. & Heideman, N.J.L. & Wyk, J.H. van (2004) - Reproduction and sexual size dimorphism in the lacertid lizard Pedioplanis burchelli (Sauria: Lacertidae) in South Africa. - Journal of Herpetology, 38 (4): 473-480.
Pedioplanis burchelli is a small oviparous lacertid lizard that inhabits rocky montane areas in the highveld grassland biome of South Africa. We studied its reproductive cycle by monthly monitoring of gravimetric, morphometric, and histological changes of the reproductive system of males and females throughout 1999. Reproduction took place in spring/summer, and gonadal activity of males and females was well synchronized and prenuptial. Photoperiod was the best predictor of seasonal fluctuations in testes mass and rainfall in the case of ovarian seasonality. Neither vitellogenic follicle count nor oviducal egg count were correlated with snout–vent length. Sexual size dimorphism with respect to certain body parts is explained either in terms of sexual selection, differential growth, or intraspecific food niche segregation. The absence of a significant difference in incidence in damaged tails between males and females may be indicative of similar levels of predation pressure.
Odierna, G. & Capriglione, T. & Olmo, E. & Cardone, A. & Rosati, C. (1990) - The karyology of some South African lacertids belonging to the genera Heliobolus, Meroles and Pedioplanis. - Journal of African Zoology, 104 (6): 541-547.
Pérez i de Lanuza, G. & Font, E. (2016) - The evolution of colour pattern complexity: selection for conspicuousness favours contrasting within-body colour combinations in lizards - Journal of Evolutionary Biology, 29 (5): 942-951.
Many animals display complex colour patterns that comprise several adjacent, often contrasting colour patches. Combining patches of complementary colours increases the overall conspicuousness of the complex pattern, enhancing signal detection. Therefore, selection for conspicuousness may act not only on the design of single colour patches, but also on their combination. Contrasting long- and short-wavelength colour patches are located on the ventral and lateral surfaces of many lacertid lizards. As the combination of long- and short-wavelength-based colours generates local chromatic contrast, we hypothesized that selection may favour the co-occurrence of lateral and ventral contrasting patches, resulting in complex colour patterns that maximize the overall conspicuousness of the signal. To test this hypothesis we performed a comparative phylogenetic study using a categorical colour classification based on spectral data and descriptive information on lacertid coloration collected from the literature. Our results demonstrate that conspicuous ventral (long wavelength-based) and lateral (short wavelength-based) colour patches co-occur throughout the lacertid phylogeny more often than expected by chance, especially in the subfamily Lacertini. These results suggest that selection promotes the evolution of the complex pattern rather than the acquisition of a single conspicuous colour patch, possibly due to the increased conspicuousness caused by the combination of colours with contrasting spectral properties.
Perry, G. (2007) - Movement patterns in lizards: measurement, modality, and behavioral correlates. - In: Lizard ecology: the evolutionary consequences of foraging mode. Cambridge University Press.
Pianka, E.R. (1971) - Lizard Species Density in the Kalahari Desert. - Ecology, 52 (6): 1024-1029.
From 12 to 18 species of desert lizards occur in ecologic sympatry on 10 study areas in the Kalahari desert of southern Africa. The number of species of diurnal lizards is similar to the number in the North American deserts, while the nocturnal component of the saurofauna is more comparable to that occurring in the Australian deserts. The between-habitat component of species density is similar in the American and the Kalahari deserts, but is markedly greater in the Australian desert. A variety of climatic and vegetational statistics are examined for the 10 areas, and correlations with lizard species density are discussed.
Pianka, E.R. (1986) - Ecology and Natural History of Desert Lizards. - Princeton University Press, Princeton, New Jersey, x + 208 pp.
Plessis I.J. du & Mouton, P. le F.N. (2012) - Foraging Strategies of Coexisting Lacertid Lizards in the Arid Tankwa Karoo Basin of South Africa. - African Zoology, Cape Town, South Africa, 47 (1):113-118.
Four lacertid lizards, Pedioplanis laticeps, P. lineo-ocellata, Meroles knoxii and Nucras tessellata, occur sympatrically on the arid plains of the Tankwa Karoo Basin in South Africa. The aim of this study was to evaluate the significance of foraging strategy in resource partitioning among the four species, allowing them to co-occur in a structurally simple system with a limited number of potential niches. Previous workers already identified P. lineo-ocellata and M. knoxii as sit-and-wait foragers and N. tessellata as an active forager. We recorded data on three foraging variables: movements per minute, proportion of time spent moving, and proportion of attacks on prey whilst moving, for juveniles and adults of P. laticeps. By comparing the foraging data obtained for P. laticeps to those for other lacertid species, we were able to demonstrate that adult P. laticeps are ambush foragers. We also noted a significant ontogenetic shift in foraging behaviour in P. laticeps, and, due to a significantly higher frequency of short brief movements, we classified juveniles as mixed foragers. The sharing of an ambush foraging strategy by at least three of the four lacertid species co-occurring on the Tankwa plains, suggests considerable overlap along the trophic dimension of ecological space. This overlap presumably promotes occupation of separate microhabitats by the three ambush foragers in the Tankwa Karoo Basin.
Plessis, I.J. du & Mouton, P. le F.N. (2011) - Habitat Preferences of Three Sympatric Lacertid Lizards in the Arid Tankwa Karoo Basin of South Africa. - African Zoology, Cape Town, South Africa, 46 (1):88-94.
Four lacertid lizards, Pedioplanis laticeps, P. lineo-ocellata, Meroles knoxii and Nucras tessellata, occur sympatrically on the arid plains of the Tankwa Karoo Basin in South Africa. The aim of this study was to determine whether the four species are spatially separated in terms of the microhabitat each species occupies, allowing them to occur in sympatry in this structurally simple system with a limited number of potential niches. The habitat preferences of the four species were investigated on the farm Gansfontein in the southwestern parts of the Tankwa Karoo Basin. The area was surveyed by walking transects through different habitat types and recording all active lizards. For each lizard observed, the species was identified and a photograph was taken of its microhabitat. At the end of the sampling period the microhabitats in which lizards were found were sorted into distinct types on the basis of substrate composition. During the survey, only one individual of N. tessellata was recorded, but sample sizes for the other three species were sufficiently large to provide a clear perspective of habitat segregation among the three species. The results showed that the three species are spatially separated at the study site, with P. lineo-ocellata being restricted to rocky areas, P. laticeps preferring gravel substrates and M. knoxii frequenting sandy areas. Although only anecdotal information is available, all indications are that the observed spatial separation of the three species is mainly the result of historical adaptation to the different substrate types.
Richter, K. (1988) - Erfahrungen mit selten gehaltenen Lacertiden. - Zusammenfassung Jahrestagung der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Herpetologie und Terrarienkunde e.V. 21. Bis 25. September 1988 in Hannover: 31-32.
Roux, J. (1907) - Beiträge zur Kenntnis der Fauna von Süd-Afrika. - Zoologische Jahrbücher. Abteilung für Systematik, Geographie und Biologie der Tiere, Jena, 25: 425-429.
Roux, J. (1907) - Description of Pedioplanis inornata. - In: "Beiträge zur Kenntnis der Fauna von Süd-Afrika. Ergebnisse einer Reise von Prof. Max Weber im Jahre 1894. VII. Lacertilia (Eidechsen)". - Zoologische Jahrbücher. Abteilung für Systematik, Geographie und Biologie der Tiere, Jena, 25: 403-444.
Rovatsos, M. & Kratochvíl, L. (2017) - Molecular sexing applicable in 4,000 species of lizards and snakes? From dream to real possibility. - Methods in Ecology and Evolution, 8 (8): 902-906.
While the stability of sex chromosomes is widely accepted in viviparous mammals and birds, ectothermic vertebrates are still largely viewed as having frequent turnovers in sex determining systems. Frequent changes in sex determining systems in ectotherms could be problematic for field ecological studies as well as for breeding programs, as molecular sexing across a phylogenetically widespread spectrum of ectothermic vertebrates would not be possible. However, we recently documented that sex determining systems in three important reptile lineages (caenophidian snakes, iguanas, and lacertid lizards) are in fact highly conserved. 2.We applied a new molecular procedure to identify sex within each of these three lineages (encompassing altogether around 4,000 species, i.e. nearly 50% of the recent species of reptiles). This technique uses quantitative PCR (qPCR) to compare copy numbers of genes specific for their respective Z (in caenophidian snakes and lacertids) and X (in iguanas) chromosomes between male and female genomes. The DNA samples required can be collected relatively non-invasively. Unlike molecular sexing based on repetitive elements, this technique can be easily applied to previously unstudied species of these lineages, as the number of copies of protein coding genes linked to the differentiated sex chromosomes is evolutionary highly conserved in each. 3.We suggest that qPCR-based molecular sexing using the comparison of gene copy number is a practical choice for non-model species of caenophidian snakes, iguanas and lacertids. Morever, it should also soon be available for other reptile lineages with differentiated sex chromosomes.
Schmidt, A.D. (1997) - Zur Verbreitung, Biologie und Ökologie von Heliobolus lugubris A. SMITH, 1838 (Sauria, Lacertidae) im südlichen Afrika. - Salamandra, Rheinbach, 33 (4): 269-288.
Nach Auswertung umfassender Sammlungsbestände verschiedener Museen und aktueller Literatur wird ein korrigiertes, zum Teil erweitertes Verbreitungsareal der lacertiden Eidechse Heliobolus lugubris gegeben. Es schließt Südangola bis zum 11. Breitengrad ebenso ein wie die gesamte namibische Küstenregion bis Swakopmund einschließlich der Namib. Weitere Arealkorrekturen ergeben sich im südlichen Namibia und in Südafrika. Hiernach besiedelt H. lugubris verschiedenste Vegetationszonen von Trockensavannen bis zu Wüstengebieten. Für zwei Fundpunkte in der nördlichen Kapprovinz sowie in Nordtransvaal wird die Habitatstruktur im einzelnen beschrieben. Freilandbeobachtungen zu Territorial- und Sozialverhalten lassen den Schluß zu, daß bei H. lugubris eine enge Paarbindung besteht, die über die Fortpflanzungszeit hinaus beibehalten wird. Diese langfristige Paarbindung ist offenbar auch entscheidend für eine erfolgreiche Terrarien- haltung dieser sonst als unverträglich geltenden Art. Tages- und Jahresdynamik werden ausführlich besprochen und im Vergleich zu experimentell ermittelten Mikroklima-Ansprüchen (Temperatur und Feuchtigkeit) disku- tiert. Es ließ sich ein deutlicher Präferenzunterschied in der Temperatur zwischen adulten und juvenilen Tieren feststellen. Vor- und Nachteile der von den Adulttieren völlig verschiedenen schwarzen Körperfärbung der Jungtiere werden in Hinblick auf die Vorzugs- temperatur, den Lebensraum und die Tagesdynamik diskutiert. Nahrungserwerb und Beutespektrum von H. lugubris werden im Vergleich mit der verwandten sympatrisch vorkommenden Art Pedioplanis lineoocellata beschrieben.
Schwacha, B. (1997) - Beobachtungen zur Eiablage bei Pedioplanis undata inornata (ROUX, 1907) und Pedioplanis husabensis BERGER-DELL´MOUR & MAYER, 1989. - Die Eidechse, Bonn/Bremen, 8 (1): 17-19.
Neue Einzelheiten über die Reproduktion von Pedioplanis undata inornata und P. husabensis werden mitgeteilt. Es wird immer nur ein Ei gelegt. Bemerkenswert ist die kurze Inkubationszeit.
Sclater, W.L. (1898) - List of the Reptiles and Batrachians of South Africa, with descriptions of New Species. - Annals of the South African Museum, Cape Town, South Africa, 1 : 95-111.
Seligmann, H. (2000) - Evolution and ecology of developmental processes and of the resulting morphology: directional asymmetry in hindlimbs of Agamidae and Lacertidae (Reptilia: Lacertilia). - Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 69 (4): 461–481.
In this paper, the evolution and ecology of directional asymmetry (DA) during the developmental trajectory (DT) is compared with that of its product, morphological DA (MDA). DT and MDA are calculated for two bilateral morphological scale characters of lizards, the number of subdigital lamellae beneath the fourth toe in 10 agamid and 28 lacertid taxa, and the number of rows of ventral scales in 12 lacertid taxa. MDA, the subtraction between left and right sides (classical measure of DA), is functional in adult animals. Results confirm the hypodiesis that, in DT, the regression parameters a (constant) and b (regression slope) of counts on the right side with those on the left describe a developmental process. No phylogenetic or environmental effects were observed on a and b, but analyses considering both a and b together show non-random phyletic patterns. Independent analyses deduced the same ancestral DT in Agamidae and Lacertidae. In Lacertidae, distance between pairs of taxa in a + b (standardized values) correlates positively with die phylogenetic distance between taxa. Phyletic trends in MDA are indirect, and due to the link of MDA with a + b. The MDA of species is more dissimilar in sympatry than in allopatry. The phyletic trends suggest evolution of DT, while die association of MDA witii sympatry suggests that ecological pressures shape MDA in adult animals. Evolution of DT is independent from tiiat of its product, MDA–adaptive determinism defines the result of, but not the mechanistic process of, development. Deterministic environmental processes define MDA, and deterministic evolutionary processes define the interactive result of a and b, but not each separately. According to circumstances, different DTs produce similar or different MDA, and a particular DT can produce different MDAs.
Smith, A. (1838) - Contributions to the Natural History of Southern Africa. Art. VIII. - Magazine of natural history, London, 2 (14): 92-94.
Smith, A. (1838) - Description of Pedioplanis undata. - In: "Contributions to the Natural History of Southern Africa". Magazine of natural history, London, 2 (14): 92-94.
Smith, A. (1849) - Tropidosaura dumerilii - Illustrations of the zoology of South Africa, Ill, Appendix: 7.
Sternfeld, R. (1911) - Description of Pedioplanis breviceps. - In: Sternfeld, R. (ed.): Zur Herpetologie Südwestafrikas. Mitteilung aus dem Zoologischen Museum in Berlin, 5: 404.
Szczerbak, N.N. (1975) - Catalog of the African Sand lizards. - Naukova Dumka, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kiev. 83 pp.
Szczerbak, N.N. (1989) - Catalogue of the African Sand Lizards (Reptilia: Sauria: Eremiainae: Lampreremias, Pseuderemias, Taenieremias, Mesalina, Meroles). - Herpetozoa, Wien, 1 (3/4): 119-132.
Das Original der vorliegenden Arbeit von N. N. SZCZERBAK ist bereits 1975 als `Katalog afrikanskih Jascurok` von der Akademie der Wissenschaften, Institut für Zoologie, Museum für Zoologie, USSR, Kiev (83 pp., 30 Karten) in russischer Sprache veröffentlicht worden. Synonymielisten, Literaturverzeichnis, Karten und Inhaltsverzeichnis der Originalpublikation wurden in die hier wiedergegebene Fassung nicht aufgenommen. Die Übersetzung erfolgte mit Zustimmung des Autors durch R. GÜNTHER (Berlin) und H. GR1LLITSCH (Wien). Die englische Zusammenfassung wurde im Original übernommen. Im Anschluß an die Übersetzung folgen als KURZE MITTEILUNG in dieser Ausgabe der HERPETOZOA Anmerkungen bzw. aktualisierende Zusätze von W. MAYER, auf die im Text durch [aa* bb* etc.] verwiesen wird.
Tolley, K.A. & Daniels, R.J. & Feldheim, K.A. (2014) - Characterisation of microsatellite markers in the Spotted Sand Lizard (Pedioplanis lineoocellata) shows low levels of inbreeding and moderate genetic diversity on a small spatial scale. - African Journal of Herpetology, Johannesburg, South Africa, 63 (2): 87-97.
Population genetic methods can be useful for understanding spatial genetic patterns, gene flow and diversity. While genetic markers such as gene sequences are useful for understanding broad scale phylogeographic patterns, microsatellite markers allow for inferences within species and on smaller spatial scales. Such data can then be used to glean information on biological processes at the landscape level. Because portions of southern Africa are predicted to be heavily impacted by climatic changes forecast for the next century, a better understanding of the biota at the species level would be beneficial for advancing knowledge on the southern African system. Therefore, we characterised 11 microsatellite markers for an arid adapted lacertid lizard, Pedioplanis lineoocellata, in order to obtain a microsatellite library for future studies. Five of 11 loci were out of Hardy-Weinberg (H-W) equilibrium, showing a homozygote excess. Frequency-based analysis suggested this is due to the presence of null alleles. We further investigated this using a model-based Bayesian approach to simultaneously estimate inbreeding, null alleles and random amplification failures. In contrast to the frequency-based approach, this method indicated that both inbreeding and random amplification failures, not null alleles, are the most significant components of the model for nine of 11 loci. Overall, the inbreeding coefficient was low, but not zero, suggesting that low levels of inbreeding contribute to H-W deviations. Finally, we examined whether population bottlenecks could be a factor in deviations from H-W using multiple methods, but found no evidence to suggest that bottlenecks have played a role.
Vanhooydonck, B. (2010) - Phenotypic divergence in southern African lacertids: why are they so special? - 10th Herpetological Association of Africa Conference - Abstract book: 5.
The staggering phenotypic variation among organisms and the striking fit between an organism`s morphology and its environment have fascinated naturalists for centuries. Darwin`s publication of `On the origin of species` was the first to offer an explanation for the apparently perfect form-function relationship. During the past century overly enthousiastic evolutionary biologists interpreted any direct link between an organism`s morphology and ecology as evidence for the theory of evolution by natural selection. However, for morphological variation to be considered adaptive it is necessary to explicitly test how this variation translates into the variation in ecologically relevant performance traits, which in turn translates into ecological (and fitness) variation. Nowadays, performance- based ecomorphological approaches are typically used to test the adaptive nature of phenotypic variation in order to provide a better understanding of the selective pressures operating on organisms. Using an ecomorphological approach, lacertid lizards have been used extensively to test whether and how they are adapted to their environment. The majority of these studies have mainly included European species, leaving African species underrepresented. This is suprising from an evolutionary viewpoint. Compared to European lacertids, African lacertid lizard clades are older and more speciose. Also, lacertid lizard communities on the African continent are more complex than the ones in Europe (i.e. comprising 7-8 species versus 2-3 species). In this talk, we will focus on the phenotypic divergence among African clades and the link with the variation in performance and ecology, and explicitly compare these results to results on European lacertids.
Vanhooydonck, B. & Measey, J. & Edwards, S. & Makhubo, B. & Tolley, K.A. & Herrel, A. (2015) - The effects of substratum on locomotor performance in lacertid lizards. - Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 115 (4): 869-881.
Locomotion is important to animals because it has direct implications for fitness through its role in predator escape, prey capture, and territory defence. Despite significant advances in our understanding of animal locomotion, studies exploring how substrate properties affect locomotor performance remain scant. In the present study, we explore how variation in substrate (sand, slate, cork) affects locomotor performance in lacertid lizards that differ in morphology. Moreover, we explore whether substrate effects are the same for different types of locomotor performance (speed, acceleration, and stamina). Our results show that the substrate affected most types of locomotor performance studied but not always in the same way. Although substrate effects were species-dependent for the maximal speed over 50 cm and the distance run to exhaustion, this was not the case for acceleration capacity. These results suggest that substrate texture differentially affects burst performance vs. longer duration measures of locomotor performance. Finally, straightforward relationships between habitat use and the substrate on which performance was maximized were not observed. This suggests that the evolution of locomotor capacity is complex and that animals may show compromise phenotypes allowing them to deal with a variety of substrates in their natural environment.
Vasilopoulou-Kampitsi, M. & Goyens, J. & Damme, R. van & Aerts, P. (2019) - The ecological signal on the shape of the lacertid vestibular system: simple versus complex microhabitats. - Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2019, (early view) 1-18.
Shape variation in the vestibular system is often linked to microhabitat structure and locomotor performance. Highly circular and orthogonal semicircular canal pairs are linked to higher motion sensitivity. Here, we use 3D geometric morphometrics to investigate shape variation in the vestibular system within lacertid lizards and its relationship to balance control. We found that lacertids living in complex microhabitats possess narrow but longer vestibular systems, an S-shaped anterior canal, a straightened lateral canal and a short common crus. However, lacertids specialized for simple microhabitats (open areas) possess wider but shorter vestibular systems, more circular anterior and lateral canals, and a longer common crus. Contrary to our expectations, species living in simple microhabitats possess more anatomical adaptations that enhance the sensitivity of their vestibular system. This suggests that species inhabiting open areas may benefit from increased sensitivity given that they are potentially more visibile to predators and have lower shelter availability. Finally, the wider shape of the vestibular system of the open area species may be linked to a wider and potentially flattened skull, which may be related to sand-diving or prey hardness.
Vasilopoulou-Kampitsi, M. & Goyens, J. & Van Damme, R. & Baeckens, S. & Aerts, P. (2017) - Scaling and morphological analysis of the lizards vestibular system, using micro CT scanning. - Micro-CT User Meeting 2017
Verwaijen, D. & Van Damme, R. (2007) - Does foraging mode mould morphology in lacertid lizards? - Journal of Evolutionary Biology, 20 (5): 1950-1961.
Evolutionary changes in foraging style are often believed to require concurrent changes in a complex suite of morphological, physiological, behavioural and life-history traits. In lizards, species from families with a predominantly sit-and-wait foraging style tend to be more stocky and robust, with larger heads and mouths than species belonging to actively foraging families. Here, we test whether morphology and foraging behaviour show similar patterns of association within the family Lacertidae. We also examine the association of bite force abilities with morphology and foraging behaviour. Lacertid lizards exhibit considerable interspecific variation in foraging indices, and we found some evidence for a covariation between foraging style and body shape. However, the observed relationships are not always in line with the predictions. Also, the significance of the relationships varies with the evolutionary model used. Our results challenge the idea that foraging style is evolutionarily conservative and invariably associated with particular morphologies. It appears that the flexibility of foraging mode and its morphological correlates varies among lizard taxa.
Waal, S.W.P. de (1978) - The squamata (Reptilia) of the Orange Free State, South Africa. - Van Die Nasionale Museum, Bloemfontein, Republiek Suid-Afrika 11: 1-160 .
Wasiolka, B. (2007) - The impact of overgrazing on reptile diversity and population dynamics of Pedioplanis l. lineoocellata in the southern Kalahari. - Dissertation Universität Potsdam. 101 pp.
Wasiolka, B. & Blaum, N. & Jeltsch, F. & Henschel, J. (2009) - Behavioural responses of the lizard Pedioplanis l. lineoocellata to overgrazing. - Acta Oecologica, 35 (2): 157-162.
We studied the effects of overgrazing on the foraging behaviour of the lizard Pedioplanis l. lineoocellata (Spotted Sand Lizard), a sit-and-wait forager, in habitats of differing vegetation states to determine the effects of habitat degradation on this species. At high grazing intensity where vegetation cover and diversity is low, the lizard P. lineoocellata moves more frequently, spends more time moving and covers larger distances than in habitats where vegetation cover and diversity is high. These behavioural changes in movement patterns can be explained by less abundant prey in habitats with low vegetation cover and diversity. Although morphology, phylogeny and physiology of P. lineoocellata should constrain the change in foraging behaviour, the species has modified its foraging strategy from sit-and-wait to actively foraging. We assume that this behavioural flexibility of P. lineoocellata is a buffer mechanism enabling the species to use and survive in degraded (unfavourable) habitats.
Wasiolka, B. & Jeltsch, F. & Henschel, J. & Blaum, N. (2010) - Space use of the spotted sand lizard (Pedioplanis l. lineoocellata) under different degradation states. - African Journal of Ecology, Oxford, 48 (1): 96-104.
Although the effects of grazing-induced savannah degradation on animal diversity are well documented, knowledge of how they affect space use or responding behaviour remains poor. In this study, we analysed space use of the spotted sand lizard (Pedioplanis l. lineoocellata) in degraded versus nondegraded habitats of southern Kalahari savannah habitats. Lizards were radio tracked, daily movement distances recorded and home range sizes calculated. In degraded Kalahari savannah habitats where plant diversity and perennial grass cover are low but shrub cover high, P. lineoocellata moves larger distances (40.88 ± 6.42 m versus 27.43 ± 5.08 m) and occupies larger home ranges (646.64 ± 244.84 m2 versus 209.15 ± 109.84 m2) than in nondegraded habitats (high plant diversity, high perennial grass cover and low shrub cover). We assume that this increase in daily movement distances and home range sizes is a behavioural plasticity to limited food resources in degraded savannah habitats. Although P. lineoocellata is able to adjust to resource-poor savannah habitats, the increase in the lizard's movement activities is likely to result in a higher predation risk. This is supported by the lower availability of protective vegetation i.e. perennial grass cover. Hence, we conclude that despite behavioural plasticity of P. lineoocellata, overgrazing has a severe negative impact on the space use of P. lineoocellata.
Welch, K. (1982) - Herpetology of Africa - a checklist and bibliography of the orders Amphisbaenia, Sauria and Serpentes. - Krieger Publishing Company, Malabar, Florida. 293 pp.
Werner, F. (1898) - Ueber Reptilien aus Syrien und Südafrika. - Jahresbericht und Abhandlungen des Naturwissenschaftlichen Vereins in Magdeburg, 1896-1898: 127-148.
Werner, F. (1910) - Zoologische und Anrtopologische Ergebnisse einer Forschungsreise im Westlichen und Zentralen Südafrika, ausgeführt in den Jahren 1903-1905. Vierter Band. Systematik und Tiergeographie. Reptilia et Amphibia. Familia Lacertidae. - Denkschriften der Medichinisch-Naturwissenschaftlichen Gesellschaft zu Jena, 16: 329-340.
Wyk, J.H. van (1984) - Die Reptiele van die Oranje-Vrystaat. - Culna, 27: 10-15.