Difference between revisions of "Lizard Reproduction"

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Lizard reproductive strategies vary; they may be
 
Lizard reproductive strategies vary; they may be
* oviparous
+
* oviparous  
*  
+
* ovoviviparous - the eggs are retained within the female until birth
 +
* viviparous - with a placental type of circulatory connection
 +
* parthenogenic - asexual reproduction found in lizards such as certain ''Lacerta'' spp. and Aspidocelis (''Cnemidophorus'') spp. consisting entirely of females.
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
  
 
* Mader, D.R. (2005). ''Reptile Medicine and Surgery''. Saunders. pp. 1264. ISBN 072169327X
 
* Mader, D.R. (2005). ''Reptile Medicine and Surgery''. Saunders. pp. 1264. ISBN 072169327X

Revision as of 00:05, 26 February 2010



Two Carolina anoles mating (Wikicommons)

Lizards have breeding seasons determined by cycles of photoperiod, temperature, rainfall, and food availability. A corresponding fluctuation can be seen in male lizards and testicular size. Male lizards may also undergo behavioural changes during breeding season and become more territorial and aggressive.

Lizard reproductive strategies vary; they may be

  • oviparous
  • ovoviviparous - the eggs are retained within the female until birth
  • viviparous - with a placental type of circulatory connection
  • parthenogenic - asexual reproduction found in lizards such as certain Lacerta spp. and Aspidocelis (Cnemidophorus) spp. consisting entirely of females.

References

  • Mader, D.R. (2005). Reptile Medicine and Surgery. Saunders. pp. 1264. ISBN 072169327X