Reproductive biology of the false coral snake Oxyrhopus guibei (Colubridae) from southeastern Brazil

2002 ◽  
Vol 23 (4) ◽  
pp. 495-504 ◽  
Author(s):  
Otavio Marques ◽  
Lígia Pizzatto
Keyword(s):  
Body Size ◽  
Reproductive Biology ◽  
Rainy Season ◽  
Reproductive Activity ◽  
Climatic Conditions ◽  
Southeastern Brazil ◽  
Coral Snake ◽  
Males And Females ◽  
Reproductive Cycles ◽  
Number Of Individuals

AbstractThe reproductive biology of the false coral snake, Oxyrhopus guibei, was studied through dissection of 496 specimens, combined with observations on captive individuals. Males mature with smaller body size than females, females attain much larger body size, and male-male combat is not expected. Clutch size ranged from 3 to 20, and was correlated with female length. Reproductive cycles in both males and females seem to be continuous, with vitellogenesis and spermatogenesis occurring throughout the year. Reproductive activity in both sexes decreased at the end of the rainy season possibly due to previous intense reproductive activity in more favorable climatic conditions. The smaller number of individuals collected at the end of the rainy season apparently occurs due to the decrease of reproductive activity of this snake.

scholarly journals Reproductive biology of the Amazon Lava Lizard (Tropidurus torquatus) from the Wet Chaco of Corrientes (Argentina): congeneric comparisons of ecotypic and interspecific variations

2014 ◽  
Vol 92 (7) ◽  
pp. 643-655 ◽  
Author(s):  
M.A. Ortiz ◽  
J.M. Boretto ◽  
C. Piantoni ◽  
B.B. Álvarez ◽  
N.R. Ibargüengoytía
Keyword(s):  
Body Size ◽  
Reproductive Biology ◽  
Fat Body ◽  
Tail Length ◽  
Reproductive Activity ◽  
Hatching Time ◽  
Fat Bodies ◽  
Reproductive Cycles ◽  
Lava Lizard ◽  
Clutch Mass

Herein we describe the reproductive biology of a population of the Amazon Lava Lizard (Tropidurus torquatus (Wied-Neuwied, 1820)) from Corrientes, northeastern Argentina (Wet Chaco). We describe the male and female reproductive cycles, minimum body size for adults, reproductive output, mean relative clutch mass, fat body cycles, and sexual dimorphism. Our results were compared with data on the reproductive biology of Brazilian populations of T. torquatus and congeneric species. In Corrientes, males of T. torquatus exhibited a continuous reproductive cycle, but with annual variation of testicular parameters associated with spermatogenic activity. In contrast, females were reproductive only from winter to summer (July–February), laying at least two clutches each of six eggs, on average, per reproductive season. The relative clutch mass and egg size values in Corrientes were the highest reported for the species. The annual cycle of energy storage (as fat bodies) was inversely correlated with reproductive activity in both sexes. Males differed from females in snout–vent length, head size, interlimb length, and tail length. We observed interpopulational differences in relative clutch mass, egg volume and mass, incubation period and hatching time, and the minimum body size for sexual maturity probably as a result of phenotypic plasticity or adaptation to local environmental conditions and likely both.

Sexual size dimorphism, diet, and reproductive biology of the Afro-Asian Sand Snake, Psammophis schokari (Psammophiidae)

2009 ◽  
Vol 30 (3) ◽  
pp. 331-340 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amanda Cottone ◽  
Aaron Bauer
Keyword(s):  
Body Size ◽  
Reproductive Biology ◽  
North Africa ◽  
Rainy Season ◽  
Sexual Size Dimorphism ◽  
Museum Specimens ◽  
Southwest Asia ◽  
Size Dimorphism ◽  
Males And Females

AbstractWe measured and dissected 226 museum specimens of Psammophis schokari (Schokari Sand Snake), a widespread, common “whipsnake” occurring in North Africa and southwest Asia. Three aspects of its ecology were investigated: sexual size dimorphism (SSD), diet, and reproductive biology. There was no significant SSD in mean body size or shape for the traits measured. The species is an opportunistic feeder, but preys predominately on lizards. Males and females exhibit their highest levels of sexual activity in synchrony and exhibit prenuptial spermiogenesis and a Type 1 vitellogenic cycle, respectively. Mating occurs at the end of the rainy season and clutch sizes are small. These findings from a Northern Hemisphere temperate sand snake are consistent with previous results for both tropical and south temperate Psammophis. These traits thus appear to be highly conserved within the genus and also exhibit convergence with respect to unrelated colubroid “whipsnakes”.

Reproduction, seasonal activity and growth of the coral snake, Micrurus corallinus (Elapidae), in the southeastern Atlantic forest in Brazil

1996 ◽  
Vol 17 (3) ◽  
pp. 277-285 ◽  
Author(s):  
Otavio A.V. Marques
Keyword(s):  
Body Size ◽  
Rainy Season ◽  
Sexual Maturity ◽  
Seasonal Patterns ◽  
Field Observations ◽  
Seasonal Activity ◽  
Coral Snake ◽  
Males And Females ◽  
Age And Sex ◽  
Southeastern Atlantic

AbstractDissection of 360 specimens of the coral snake Micrurus corallinus, combined with data on captive individuals and field observations, provided information on the reproductive ecology of this elapid snake. Clutch size ranged from 2 to 12 eggs, and was correlated with maternal body size. Reproduction seems to be highly seasonal, with mating and vitellogenesis occurring at the onset of the rainy season, oviposition in mid rainy season, and hatching at the end of the rainy season and early dry season. Incubation in the laboratory ranged from 78 to 93 days. Neonates measured 177-197 mm snout-vent length and weighed 2.02-2.76 g. Growth of juveniles is quick, with both males and females attaining sexual maturity at an age of about 18 months. Seasonal patterns of surface activity seem to be related to age and sex.

scholarly journals Reproductive biology and feeding of Curimatella lepidura (Eigenmann & Eigenmann) (Pisces, Curimatidae) in Juramento reservoir, Minas Gerais, Brazil

2006 ◽  
Vol 23 (2) ◽  
pp. 314-322 ◽  
Author(s):  
Érika R. de Alvarenga ◽  
Nilo Bazzoli ◽  
Gilmar B. Santos ◽  
Elizete Rizzo
Keyword(s):  
Sexual Dimorphism ◽  
Reproductive Biology ◽  
Sexual Maturation ◽  
Nutrient Recycling ◽  
Reproductive Activity ◽  
Feeding Habit ◽  
Southeastern Brazil ◽  
Short Rainy Season ◽  
Probable Role ◽  
Energetic Reserves

Reproductive biology and feeding of Curimatella lepidura (Eigenmann & Eigenmann, 1889) were studied in Juramento reservoir, São Francisco River basin, Southeastern Brazil. Histological analyses and gonadosomatic indexes revealed females and males in reproductive activity from October to March and total spawning occurring from January to March coupled with the peak of spermiating males. In the dry season, the fishes accumulated energetic reserves for reproduction during a short rainy season. The species presented sexual dimorphism, being females larger than males and sexual maturation occurring close to 7.7 cm standard length for females and 7.1 cm for males. C. lepidura presented iliophagous feeding habit, ingesting mainly sediment/detritus and a small amount of acari, algae, Tricoptera insects and Ostracoda crustaceans, suggesting a probable role in nutrient recycling of the Juramento reservoir.

scholarly journals Population biology of Trichomycterus sp. (Siluriformes, Trichomycteridae) in Passa Cinco stream, Corumbataí River sub-basin, São Paulo State, southeastern Brazil

2009 ◽  
Vol 69 (3) ◽  
pp. 925-934 ◽  
Author(s):  
GR. Rondineli ◽  
AL. Carmassi ◽  
FMS. Braga
Keyword(s):  
Rainy Season ◽  
Population Biology ◽  
Stomach Contents ◽  
Sampling Period ◽  
Southeastern Brazil ◽  
Longitudinal Gradient ◽  
Temporal Dimension ◽  
Paulo State ◽  
Males And Females ◽  
Electric Fishing

The aim of this work was to characterise the population of Trichomycterus sp. in Passa Cinco stream, regarding length structure, sex ratio, diet and reproductive aspects, in accordance with drought and rainy season periods and longitudinal gradient, as well as to analyse its corporal condition in a temporal dimension. Six samplings were accomplished with the use of electric fishing equipment in three different sites in Passa Cinco stream, contemplating sites of order two, three and four, during the months of May, July, September and November of 2005; and January and March of 2006. Three hundred and forty one individuals were captured, composed of 203 males, 99 females and 39 immatures. The smallest captured individual, an immature, presented 28 mm of standard length and the largest, a male, 85 mm. There was not significant variation in repletion degree and accumulated fat in the visceral cavity of the individuals analysed during the considered periods. Eleven different food items were found in the stomach contents. Considering the whole sampling period, immature Diptera was a preferential item and other items were found as occasionally ingested. Spearman and Friedman tests did not find significant differences in the diet of Trichomycterus sp. in the periods and sampling sites, respectively. The average of absolute fecundity was of 73 oocytes, and the parceled type of spawning was performed. Both males and females of Trichomycterus sp. presented significant differences in their corporal conditions in the considered periods, and in the rainy season, these fishes were in better condition.

Aspects of the reproductive biology of Physalaemus cuvieri (Anura: Leptodactylidae) in northeastern Brazil

1995 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
pp. 67-76 ◽  
Author(s):  
Larissa Barreto ◽  
Gilda V. Andrade
Keyword(s):  
Reproductive Biology ◽  
Reproductive Activity ◽  
Northeastern Brazil ◽  
Southeastern Brazil ◽  
Territorial Behaviour ◽  
Open Area ◽  
Reproductive Tactics ◽  
Male And Female ◽  
Calling Activity ◽  
Physical Interactions

AbstractObservations were made on the reproductive biology of Physalaemus cuvieri from open area habitat in São Luis, MA, Brazil, from August 1988 to August 1989. The reproductive tactics are compared to those of the same species in southeastern Brazil. Vocalization and reproductive activity were restricted the rainy season (January to June), with peaks of activity during late March and early April. Nocturnal calling activity turn was prolonged, with little variation in the number of individual calling during the night. The presence of communal foam nests suggests non-territorial behaviour in this species. However, males called from the same sites all night long. They showed differentiated vocalizations or antiphony, and aggressive physical interactions, which suggests that there may be some territorial behaviours in males. The remainder of the territorial behaviour is related to persistence of the invading male. Satellite behaviour, females mate choice, and a stereotyped behaviour (e.g. quick circular movement of both male and female) prior to amplexus, were also associated with territoriality.

scholarly journals Reproductive biology of the Brazilian sharpnose shark (Rhizoprionodon lalandii) from southeastern Brazil

2007 ◽  
Vol 64 (9) ◽  
pp. 1829-1835 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fabio S. Motta ◽  
Rafael C. Namora ◽  
Otto B. F. Gadig ◽  
F. M. S. Braga
Keyword(s):  
Reproductive Biology ◽  
Positive Relationship ◽  
Ovarian Follicles ◽  
Southeastern Brazil ◽  
Brazilian Coast ◽  
Marine Science ◽  
Size At Maturity ◽  
Total Length ◽  
Males And Females ◽  
Using Data

Abstract Motta, F. S., Namora, R. C., Gadig, O. B. F., and Braga, F. M. S. 2007. Reproductive biology of the Brazilian sharpnose shark (Rhizoprionodon lalandii) from southeastern Brazil. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 64: 1829–1835. The reproductive biology of the Brazilian sharpnose shark, Rhizoprionodon lalandii, off southeastern Brazil was investigated using data from gillnet landings. The size-at-maturity for males and females was estimated to be 59 and 62 cm total length (LT), respectively. Ovarian fecundity ranged from 3 to 7 follicles (mean = 4.54), and uterine fecundity from 1 to 5 embryos (mean = 3.3). There was a slight positive relationship between female LT and the number of ovarian follicles, but uterine fecundity was not related to female LT. Embryonic growth is fast following fertilization during summer and autumn. Gestation requires 11–12 months, and peak parturition is between August and September. A comparison of size-at-maturity between animals from northeastern and southeastern Brazil suggests the existence of at least two stocks of R. lalandii along the Brazilian coast.

scholarly journals Reproductive aspects of Dendropsophus sanborni (Anura, Hylidae) in northeastern Argentina

2014 ◽  
Vol 104 (4) ◽  
pp. 432-438 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lucila M. Curi ◽  
Gabriela. B. Olea ◽  
Blanca B. Álvarez ◽  
Jorge A. Céspedez ◽  
Daniel M. Lombardo
Keyword(s):  
Sexual Dimorphism ◽  
Body Mass ◽  
Reproductive Activity ◽  
Testicular Volume ◽  
Reproductive Pattern ◽  
Males And Females ◽  
Reproductive Cycles ◽  
Northeastern Argentina

Reproductive aspects of Dendropsophus sanborni (Anura, Hylidae) in northeastern Argentina. The aim of this investigation was to characterize reproductive aspects of Dendropsophus sanborni (Schmidt, 1944) (Anura, Hylidae) in the northwest of Corrientes province, in northeastern Argentina. The reproductive cycles of males and females, the existence of sexual dimorphism and the male’s vocalization period were analyzed. Samplings were made from September 2011 to August 2012. Dendropsophus sanborni showed a prolonged reproductive pattern because reproductive activity was observed during most part of the year. Calling males were recorded all months except in July. The spermatogenic cycle can be characterized as potentially continuous. In males, snout-vent length was significantly correlated with mean testicular volume. The species showed sexual dimorphism in body mass, with females larger than males. Post-ovulatory females were found from March to June and most females had oocytes at different stages of maturity, with abundant post-vitellogenic oocytes from August to December.

Seasonal activity of snakes in the Atlantic forest in southeastern Brazil

2001 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
pp. 103-111 ◽  
Author(s):  
André Eterovic ◽  
Otavio Marques ◽  
Whaldener Endo
Keyword(s):  
Atlantic Forest ◽  
Activity Patterns ◽  
Climatic Conditions ◽  
Seasonal Abundance ◽  
Southeastern Brazil ◽  
Seasonal Activity ◽  
Collection Data ◽  
Annual Activity ◽  
Main Factors ◽  
Number Of Individuals

AbstractSeasonal abundance of some snake species from the Atlantic forest in southeastern Brazil was inferred from collection data gathered throughout twelve years at the Instituto Butantan in São Paulo, Brazil. The number of collected individuals of Chironius spp., Liophis miliaris, Spilotes pullatus, Tropidodryas spp., Micrurus corallinus, and Bothrops jararaca was significantly higher during the rainy season, whereas the number of Sibynomorphus neuwiedi was higher during the dry season. Erythrolamprus aesculapii, Xenodon neuwiedii, Tomodon dorsatus and Bothrops jararacussu did not show significant differences in the number of individuals collected at each of these seasons. Seasonality in captures may result from seasonal activity patterns. Food availability, tolerance to climatic conditions, reproductive cycle, and phylogenetic constraints are considered the main factors responsible for the observed patterns. A multivariate approach is recommended for analysis of annual activity.

scholarly journals Amphibians of an open cerrado fragment in southeastern Brazil

2005 ◽  
Vol 5 (2) ◽  
pp. 93-109 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cínthia Aguirre Brasileiro ◽  
Ricardo J. Sawaya ◽  
Mara C. Kiefer ◽  
Marcio Martins
Keyword(s):  
Natural History ◽  
Habitat Use ◽  
Rainy Season ◽  
Reproductive Activity ◽  
Southeastern Brazil ◽  
Gallery Forest ◽  
Spatial And Temporal Patterns ◽  
The Past ◽  
Historical Factors ◽  
History Information

The Cerrado encompasses ca. 2 million km² in Brazil. Most Cerrado areas have been greatly disturbed in the past decades. Only 20% of this biome remain undisturbed, and only 1.2% is protected. Knowledge on the biology and diversity of Cerrado amphibian assemblages is still incipient. Here we present natural history information (habitat use and reproductive activity) of 28 species of frogs from the Estação Ecológica de Itirapina (EEI), and compare the composition of this assemblage with those of other Cerrado areas, other open areas, and a few forest areas throughout Brazil. We demonstrate that the Itirapina assemblage is more similar to those of other open areas than to those of forests, even when the latter are geographically closer. Six species occurred in the gallery forest at varying levels of dependence (three independent, two semi-dependent, and one totally dependent) while all other species occurred exclusively in open areas. For most species at EEI, reproduction was strongly synchronized with the onset of the rainy season, with the exception of Hypsiboas lundii, which called throughout the year, and Proceratophrys sp. which started calling prior to the beginning of the rainy season. The spatial and temporal patterns observed in this assemblage seem to reflect both ecological (e. g. hydroperiod of water bodies) and historical factors (e. g. early breeding in leptodactylids, late breeding in hylids, both phylogenetically constrained).

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