How to translate text using browser tools
31 August 2019 Age Determination in the Sand Lizard Psammodromus algirus (Reptilia; Lacertidae) by Means of Skeletochronology
Zakher Bouragaoui, Said Nouira
Author Affiliations +
Abstract

We examined lines of arrested growth (LAG) in femurs from 20 individuals of the sand lizard Psammodromus algirus sampled from the north of Tunisia (North Africa). The number of the LAGs reached a maximum of three. The instant speed of linear growth in the first year was 6.6×10–2 mm/day and 3.76×10–2 mm/day the second year. The diameter of the marrow cavity was significantly larger in female (334.52 µm±115.68 µm) than in male (324.42 µm±114.2 µm). The growth rate observed in P. algirus followed the known growth pattern in lacertid lizards and the difference in the diameter of the marrow cavity between males and females may be related to a sexual dimorphism.

© 2019 by The Herpetological Society of Japan
Zakher Bouragaoui and Said Nouira "Age Determination in the Sand Lizard Psammodromus algirus (Reptilia; Lacertidae) by Means of Skeletochronology," Current Herpetology 38(2), 173-179, (31 August 2019). https://doi.org/10.5358/hsj.38.173
Accepted: 14 June 2019; Published: 31 August 2019
KEYWORDS
Lacertidae
longevity
sexual dimorphism
sexual maturity
Skeletochronology
RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS
Get copyright permission
Back to Top