Scaling of the sexual size and shape skull dimorphism in the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis L.)

Abstract

Sand lizards (Lacerta agilis) exhibit a clear pattern of sexual dimorphism, both in coloration and body proportions, where males have larger heads and are longer-legged at a given snout-to-vent length (SVL). In this study we analyse allometry of skull growth with SVL and skull length (SL) as references. The sand lizard skull is basically sexually size dimorphic and there are only minor shape differences. When SVL is used as a reference point, it generates differences in all traits to be measured, presumably because SVL is subject to different and strong selection pressures in both sexes. When skull length is taken as a reference point, differences in skull shape are restricted only to the postorbital region, which is wider in males. This may reflect selection pressure on stronger bite force in males.