Licht-im-Terrarium: Literaturdatenbank
Licht-im-Terrarium: Literaturdatenbank |
|
 |
|
Hunsaker, D. (1962). Ethological isolating mechanisms in the sceloporus torquatus group of lizards. Evolution, 16(1), 62–74. Added by: Sarina (2009-04-15 17:21:34) |
| Resource type: Journal Article BibTeX citation key: Hunsaker1962 View all bibliographic details  |
Categories: Englisch = English Keywords: Echsen = Lizards, Reptilien = Reptiles, Sehvermögen = Visual Perception, Ultraviolett = Ultraviolet Creators: Hunsaker Collection: Evolution |
Views: 3/786 Views index: % Popularity index: 0.25% |
| Abstract |
|
Lizards of the torquatus species group of the genus Sceloporus were studied to determine behavioral mechanisms which would serve as isolating factors to inhibit gene flow between the species. The group is divided into a small-scaled series, S. jarrovi, ornatus, and dugesi; and a large-scaled series, S. poinsetti, cyanogenys, mucronatus, and torquatus. Representatives of each of these species were observed in the laboratory to determine any ability to discriminate between species-specific characters as well as social structure and association pattern. The species involved are characterized by very similar coloration and patterns, indicating that the individuals must rely on other factors to discriminate specific differences. Visual responses to other genera or species groups were observed to be efficient when gross morphology, pattern, or size differences were evident. It was determined that responses to behavior patterns that were of a species-specific nature assisted the lizards in species identification. Observations indicated that each species in the group had a characteristic pattern of head bobbing which elicited responses in other lizards that observed this behavior. Females use this as one factor in choosing a partner and an area in which to live. The sceloporines utilized in this study frequently tasted foreign objects and other lizards, presumably to identify species through chemo-reception. Social structure of the populations was also investigated. Observations indicated that the female seeks out a territory that is occupied by a male of the species. His aggression toward a male invader of any similar species protects the female from extraspecific gene flow. It was concluded that the species considered maintain specific integrity through the interaction of several factors including allopatry, territoriality, social structure of populations, and differential responses to behavior patterns and morphological characteristics.
Added by: Sarina |