An Experience of Captive Incubation of the Clutch of the European Glass Lizard (Reptilia: Sauria: Anguidae), with Notes on Its Reproductive Biology

Abstract

A case of a successful incubation of a clutch of the European glass lizard (Pseudopus apodus) under controlled laboratory conditions during July 22 – September 19, 2019 is reported here. Fully developed neonates hatched from all eggs (n = 7) on the 60th day of incubation. A detailed description of the temperature and humidity regimes of incubation as well as the size and weight characteristics of eggs and offsprings are provided. Moreover, protecting and caring female behavior in regards to the clutch within the first month of incubation was documented comprehensively for the first time. Some aspects of P. apodus reproductive biology such as parental care, oviposition terms, frequency of reproduction and female fecundity are discussed taking into account the data accumulated within the last decennary for the Crimean populations of the species. Likely causes for the non-annual breeding of females were analyzed