Caudal autotomy among populations of the lizard Sceloporus variabilis (Squamata: Phrynosomatidae) in contrasting environments

Abstract

AbstractCaudal autotomy is a behaviour in lizards that favours survival but brings with it some associated costs, mainly loss of energy, which is related to the position of the breaking point. Moreover, the frequency of tail loss can vary at different levels, between sexes, populations, seasons and at an intra‐ and inter‐population level. In this study, we analysed the breaking position of the tails in individuals and frequencies of tail loss between years, sexes, seasons and populations of the lizard Sceloporus variabilis that inhabit contrasting environments. The results showed a low frequency of tail loss at the ends (distal and proximal) of this organ (except for individuals from the xeric scrubland population) and there was a higher proportion of complete than incomplete tails in lizards for all analysed populations. Also, there was no variation in the frequency of tail loss among populations, sexes (except in one population), years or seasons. A higher proportion of organisms with complete tails suggests that this organ is an important element for these lizards. In addition, the lack of variation in the frequency of tail loss may indicate a similar behaviour such as escape from predators among the groups analysed.