Reproductive output in spiny lizards (Genus Sceloporus) with different reproductive mode: A comparative approach

Abstract

The analysis of the reproductive output variation within a lineage is fundamental to understand life-history evolution. When different reproductive modes occur within the same lineage, the comparison of the reproductive output of each mode becomes relevant to understand how reproductive output is linked to the reproductive mode, evolutionary history, and environmental factors. In this study, we analyzed the bet-hedging life-history model approach to the reproductive output in the spiny lizards, genus Sceloporus . We conducted a comparative phylogenetic and standard statistical analysis on published and original reproductive output and environmental data from Sceloporine lizards. No statistical differences in the reproductive output variables were detected between oviparous and viviparous species. Clutch/litter size was negatively correlated with average and minimum environmental temperature. Furthermore, body size was positively correlated with clutch/litter size. A high phylogenetic signal was detected for body size, body mass, and clutch/litter size, but not for reproductive effort. All life-history traits analyzed seem to have a deep evolutionary history, however they are still correlated with environmental variables indicating some evidence for bet-hedging strategy. Results also were discussed under the climate change effects.