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Au 1er décembre 2009, la base de données herpétologiques de la Société des Sciences Naturelles de Tarn-et-Garonne comptait 2506 données géoréférencées. A partir de ces données, le présent article fait état de la répartition des Reptiles et Amphibiens dans le département de Tarn-et-Garonne et sur le secteur de la Forêt de Grésigne.

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The city of Toulouse is engaged in a policy of census, conservation and development of urban biodiversity. In this context, a survey of the fauna and flora has been ordered to the consulting firm Biotope. Nineteen sites, chosen by the City of Toulouse for their potential interest, have been surveyed in 2009. A supplementary site was surveyed in 2011. Also, data was gathered from other organisms involved in biodiversity monitoring. This article presents the results of the data collected in the course of this study, with addition of supplementary data from the authors. This study enabled to enhance the current knowledge on the herpetofauna of the county of Toulouse, with more than 600 field data collected, and the discovery of three new taxa. The number of amphibian and reptile species of Toulouse is respectively twelve and ten.

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Electrophoretic investigations of six populations of green lizards from Western, Central, and Southeastern Europe are consistent with results from hybridization experiments and confirm species status for the western green lizard, Lacerta bilineata. NE! distances of 0.16- 0.19 found between L. viridis and L. bilineata are within the range found for other sister species of lacertids. Lizards from the Greek island of Euboea differ slightly from typical viridis morphologically and electrophoretically, which is again consistent with hybridization results. The proven practicability of experimental hybridization provides support for the biological species concept.

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The determination of amphibians and reptiles species, their altitudinal range and biotopes in Les Planes de Son and the Mata de València, was determined by sampling the study area from autumn 2006 to spring of 2007. Compared to other studied Pyrenean areas, the herpetofauna is relatively poor. We only found 5 species of amphibians and 9 of reptiles. Specific samplings discard the presence of two Pyrenean endemics, de newt (Calotriton asper) and the lizard (Iberolacerta bonnali). Interestingly, we found an altitudinal replacement of ocelated lizard (Timon lepidus) by green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) and of Iberian rocky lizard (Podarcis hispanica) by Podarcis muralis. Less forested habitats situated at low altitude are the richest in amphibian and reptile species, in contrast to the highest places inhabited by few species (Rana temporaria, Podarcis muralis and Vipera aspis).

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Abstract Food habits of the green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) were studied in some Mediterranean sites of the vicinities of Rome (Latium, central Italy), by means both of stomach dissection of individuals found already dead in the field and faeces analysis of living individuals. The taxonomic diet composition of the lizards was accurately described by both methods, thus demonstrating the reliability of faecal pellet analysis as an non-cruel method to study lizard diets. However, by using the faeces analysis technique, it is difficult to measure the exact food intake rate (items / unit of time) as well as the size distribution of prey ingested by lizards. There was a remarkable ontogenetic change in the taxonomic diet composition of green lizards: adults essentially consumed beetles and isopods, whereas juveniles fed mainly upon orthopterans, spiders, and Rhynchota. Cannibalism and predation upon small vertebrates (lizards) were very rare events. It is suggested that (i) age-related differences in microhabitat frequented could explain the dietary differences between young and adult lizards due to different availability of the various prey categories in the various microhabitats, and that (ii) adults and juveniles partition their habitats to reduce intraspecific interference competition.

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I visited southern France to search for Timon lepidus for the third time in 1998. Sites visited included (among others) Maussane, Lac du Salagou and the surroundings of this lake, St. Rémy-de-Provence, the surrounding hills of Le petit Crau and Avignon. I did not find Timon lepidus this time, but did see Natrix maura, Malpolon monspessulanus, Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis and many Psammodromus hispanicus. There were not very many amphibians visible because of the hot weather.

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DNA sequence indicates the Lacertidae contain two subfamilies, Gallotiinae and Lacertinae, the latter comprising two monophyletic tribes, the Eremiadini of Africa and arid southwest and central Asia, and the Lacertini of Europe, northwest Africa and southwest and east Asia. Relationships within the 108 species of Lacertini are explored using mtDNA (291 bp cytochrome b; 329 bp 12S rRNA for 59 nominal species, and reanalysis of the data of Harris et al. 1998, and Fu 2000). The morphology of the tribe is reviewed and 64 of its characters (equivalent to 83 binary ones) also used to assess relationships. The Lacertini are assigned to 19 monophyletic units of 1 to 27 species, recognised here as the following genera (contents are indicated in brackets): Algyroides, Anatololacerta gen. nov. (L. danfordi group), Apathya (L. cappadocica group), Archaeolacerta (L. bedriagae), Dalmatolacerta gen. nov. (L. oxycephala), Darevskia (L. saxicola group), Dinarolacerta gen. nov. (L. mosorensis), Hellenolacerta gen. nov. (L. graeca), Iberolacerta (L. monticola group), Iranolacerta gen. nov. (L. brandtii and L. zagrosica), Lacerta s. str. (sand and green lizards, L. agilis group), Parvilacerta gen. nov. (L. parva and L. fraasii), Phoenicolacerta gen. nov. (L. laevis group), Podarcis (wall lizards), Scelarcis (L. perspicillata), Takydromus (Asian grass lizards), Teira (L. dugesii), Timon (ocellated lizards, L. lepida group) and Zootoca (L. vivipara). Both mtDNA and morphology indicate that Lacerta and Timon are sister taxa, and DNA suggests further possible relationships among genera (Fig. 1, p. 6). Neither DNA nor morphology indicates that the archaeolacertas (sometimes formalised as Archaeolacerta sens. lat.) form a clade. Instead, they are representatives of an ecomorph associated with living on rock exposures and using the narrow crevices that these contain. The Lacertidae probably arose in the European area, with the Gallotiinae later reaching Northwest Africa and the Canary Islands, and the ancestor of the Eremiadini invading Africa in the mid-Miocene. The Lacertini spread through much of their present European range and diversified, perhaps largely by repeated vicariance, around 12–16 My ago, producing the ancestors of the present mainly small-bodied genera, which then underwent often modest speciation. Three units spread more widely: the Lacerta-Timon clade of large-bodied lizards probably dispersed earliest, followed by Algyroides and then Podarcis. Overall, European Lacertidae show a pattern of repeated spread, often accompanied by restriction of previous groups. Expansion of Lacertini may have displaced earlier lacertid lineages from all or much of Europe; while spread of Podarcis may have restricted many other genera of Lacertini. The earlier expansion of the Lacerta-Timon clade probably did not have this effect, as difference in adult body size restricted competitive interaction with other forms. Several invasions of more distant areas also occurred: of East Asia by Takydromus over 10 My ago, and more recently of northwest Africa by Podarcis, Scelarcis and Timon, and Madeira by Teira. Relationships within the Eremiadini estimated from both mtDNA, and nDNA differ considerably from those based on morphology. They indicate relatively mesic forms may have diversified widely across Africa and given rise to at least three independent invasions of arid habitats. MtDNA also indicates that Lacerta andreanskyi belongs in the Eremiadini and may occupy a basal position there. It is assigned to a further new genus, Atlantolacerta gen. nov.

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Some remarkable altitudes of Lacerta bilineata (at 1740 and 1745 m) and Hierophis viridiflavus (at 2265 m) in the Catalan Pyrenees, and Timon lepidus (up to 1901 m) in Teleno Massif (Montes de León) are here presented.

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It is described the finding of a death Lacerta bilineata and its circumstances, apparently by accidental cause when it was trapped in a small-mammal burrow.

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1. The signals that animals use to communicate often differ considerably among species. Part of this variation in signal design may derive from differential natural selection on signal efficacy: the ability of the signal to travel efficiently through the environment and attract the receiver`s attention. For the visual and acoustic modalities, the effect of the physical environment on signal efficacy is a well-studied selective force. Still, very little is known on its impact on chemical signals. 2. Here, we took a broad, phylogenetic comparative approach to test for a relationship between animals` signal chemistry and properties of their natural environment. Our study focused on lizards from the Lacertidae family. 3. We sampled 64 species across three continents and determined the lipophilic composition of their glandular signalling secretions using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. For each species, an array of environmental variables of high temporal and spatial resolution was obtained from climate databases. 4. Species varied considerably in the overall richness (number of constituents) of their secretions, as well as in the relative contribution of the major chemical compound classes. Signal richness and the relative contribution of the respective compounds exhibited little evidence of phylogenetic relatedness, suggesting that chemical signals may change very rapidly. Neither insularity nor substrate use affected chemical signal composition, however, we found a strong statistical relationship between the chemistry of the lizards` secretions and aspects of the thermal and hydric environment they inhabit. 5. Species from `xeric` milieus contained high proportions of stable fatty acid esters and high molecular weight alcohols in their glandular secretions, which likely increase the persistence of secretion scent-marks. In contrast, species inhabiting `mesic` environments produced secretions of a high chemical richness comprising high levels of aldehydes and low molecular weight alcohols. This chemical mix probably creates a volatile-rich signal that can be used for long-distance airborne communication. 6. We argue that the observed variation in signal design results from differential natural selection, optimizing signal efficacy under contrasting environmental conditions.

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The longevity of several lacertid lizard species in captivity is reported. The conditions of keeping, which have been successful throughout many years, are briefly presented.

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We carried out a morphometric study of the skull throughout postnatal ontogeny in 14 species of Iberian lacertid lizards belonging to the genera Acanthodactylus, Algyroides, Psammodromus, Podarcis, Zootoca, Timon and Lacerta s. latu with the aim of elaborating a key of identification for the studies species. A total of sixty one characters showing interspecific variation are identified. The characters are defined in articulated and disarticulated skulls.

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We present the distribution of amphibians and reptiles in Burgos (Spain), expressed by UTM 10x10Km.The situation of the country lake an area with different herpetofauna populations is a very important success; there are european-atlantic herpetofauna and typical mediterranean also.

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Le ARE (Area di Rilevanza Erpetologica) sono aree di particolare pregio crpetologico, formalmente istituitc dalla Societas Herpetologica Itaiica a seguito della valurazione da parte della Commissione Conservazione. Nel `Parco Nazionale dell`Appennino Lucano, Val d`Agri e Lagonegrese` (Basilicata, Italia meridionale) e stato istituita un` ARE nel 2016, la prima per la regione Basilicata. Nel presente contributo si forniscono informazioni sui metodi di campo utilizzati per il censimento erpetologico nell`ARE e i risultati relativi alia ricchezza specifica e difTusone delle specie. Nell`ARE sono stati rilevate 9 specie di anfibi (75% di quelli potenziali) e 13 (65%) di rettili. Rana itaiica, Lissotriton itaiicus, Podarcis siculus e Lacerta bilineata sono specie diffuse e comuni; Triturus carnifex, Pelophylax sinkl. esculentus, Chalcides chalcides, Testudo hermanni, Anguis veronensis e Zamenis lineatus sono invece quelle piu rare. Inoltre, per una popolazione di Bombina pachypus e stato anche awiato un monitoraggio demografico tuttora in corso.

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In connectivity conservation and ecological network planning, the selection of focal fragmentationsensitive species represents a priority step. Nevertheless, despite their strategic role, selection of focal species has traditionally been carried out using charismatic and/or non objective approaches. In this way, actions of planning and conservation could be ineffective. Using as a case study Italian reptiles, we apply an expert-based approach for the selection of focal species on the basis of sensitivity to components of habitat fragmentation (habitat area reduction, increase of habitat isolation, increase of edge effect and landscape matrix disturbance) and of intrinsic ecological traits of the species (trophic level, dispersal ability, body size, niche breadth, rarity). The threshold values for each component of fragmentation defined a set of 21 focal species that can be divided into the three macro-components of human-induced habitat fragmentation (HIHF) towards which they show a sensitivity, the suitable spatial scale of populations and relative suitable habitat categories. Among these species, seven can be sampled easily with standard, low-cost field protocols. The selected species largely coincide with the species known in literature as fragmentation-sensitive.

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Functional aspects of biotopes in the distribution of Amphibians and Reptiles in suburban territory of Padua -- Within a two-years field campaign has been possible to assess the distribution of amphibians and reptiles in the territories surrounding the city of Padua, an area subjected in the last decades to deep transformations related to the strong urban and industrial development. 27 sites have been considered, characterized by riparian zones, abandoned clay/sand pits, woodlands and hedgerows, included in the Padova municipality and the surronding ones. In order to obtain a complete report of the ecology and real distribution of the species, agricultural and urban surroundings of the study area have also been considered. Overall, 8 Amphibian species and 9 Reptile ones have been recorded. The study results an important tool for territorial planning in a municipal, provincial and regional level.

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The list of amphibians and reptiles living in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur constitutes an inventory of up-to-date knowledge on herpetofauna. It contains 22 amphibian taxons and 41 reptile taxons. It also contains their regional distribution, a list of the relevant national, European, and international protection laws, as well as the conservation status of each species.

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The list of amphibians and reptiles living in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur constitutes an inventory of up-to-date knowledge on herpetofauna.

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The distribution of the Western Green Lizard in Baden-Württemberg ist restricted to the Kaiserstuhl-area and the Tuniberg, a hillside few kilometres south of the Kaiserstuhl-area. In this article we describe new records of the species at the western slopes of the Tuniberg, suggesting that Western Green Lizards are more widespread at the hillside as formerly supposed. However, population density at the western slopes seems to be rather small as suggested by the low numbers of individuals found. Habitats inhabitated by the species do not differ from those of the Kaiserstuhl-area. Since the area between Kaiserstuhl and Tuniberg hill contains no suitable habitats for Western Green Lizards, contacts between both populations are rather unlikely.

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Reptile assemblages across agricultural landscapes: where does biodiversity hide?— The transition from traditional to intensive farming, aimed at large–scale production, has rapidly altered agricultural landscapes, leading to the reduction and fragmentation of natural habitats and to the consequent loss of biodiversity. Herpetofauna is seriously threatened by agriculture intensification worldwide, but less is known about its distribution in agro–ecosystems, especially at field scale. We analysed reptile abundance and diversity in eight agricultural and semi–natural land uses, and inside vegetated buffer strips interspersed among fields. Interestingly, most reptiles were recorded in the buffer strips while intensive crops and pastures hosted just one lizard species. Richness of individuals and species increased when strips were connected to semi–natural areas, independently of their width and vegetation structure. In view of our results, that highlight the role of minor landscape features for the presence of vertebrates in intensive agro–ecosystems, we recommend the implementation of buffer strips among the measures for vertebrate conservation in agricultural landscapes.

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Reptiles range in the Federal Republic of Germany with the most endangered groups of animals and conservation measures are therefore of great importance for their sur- vival. The ecological requirements of all twelve native species are precisely stated: climatic and microclimatic conditions, substrate humidity, vegetation structures, animals for prey, microstructures, hiding places, hibernation quarters and oviposition sites are decisive factors for the absence or presence of the particular species. The climatic factors are most important for those xerothermic species, which usually reach the northern limit of their range in our country. According to their habitat preference the following three eco- logical groups of reptiles can be separated: (a) Species dependent on open water, (b) species of open to semi-open dry habitats, (c) ecological generalists. The species-specific data regarding the minimal population and habitat size are mostly unknown, but some experimentally obtained data are available. The indigenous species of reptiles are especially endangered through the following factors: (1) Destruction of habitats; (2) direct and indirect poisoning; (3) direct pro- secution and indirect destruction; (4) expulsion through human interference; (5) natural harmful effects (especially of climatic nature). The extent and effects of endangering and corresponding counter-measures are dis- cussed. Special attention is paid to the general aspects of habitat protection, the priorities and model representation of conservation and development measures for reptile habitats. The occurence of reptiles in xerothermic grassland can be secured only if the direct destruction of the habitat by building up, afforestation, wine growing, fertilization and other kinds of intensive use of the land are run down, however, also the secondary fac- tors must forma part of the management: natural succession of crops as in extensive agri- cultural methods, sheep grazing, mowing or combination of mowing and burning. The maintenance and reproduction of reptile populations ·of woodlands needs the provision of light woods, managed according to old methods, and additionally the pro- vision and maintenance of extended and structurally abundant forest edges. The typical reptile population in an area of intensive agriculture requires at least four hectare of extensively managed grassland per each square kilometre; chis area can be either in one part or consist of small scattered `ecological cells`. In order eo maincain ehe reptiles inhabiting wetlands, all efforcs regarding an in- creased draining of these areas must be strict!y prevented. The semi-natural fens and wet meadows need regular management: mowing and removal of mowed grass. For ehe Euro- pean pond terrapin (Emys orbicularis) and the Dice snake (Natrix tessellata) it is pos- sible eo increase ehe qualicy of ehe habitat if additional undisturbed sites for oviposition and sunbathing could be provided. This equally applies to ehe Adder (Vipera berus) and the Grass snake (Natrix natrix). The shortage of food for ehe young specimens could be obviated by establishing amphibian habitats.

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The paper discusses the possibilities of methodical improvements of faunistic discern- ing and mapping of reptiles in central Europe. These are based on the knowledge of the biology, behaviour and phenology of central European species. The main topics of the discussion are the procedures in the field and the influence of weather, time of day, and season on the activity of the species to be recorded. Questions related to quantitative surveys are also dealt with. The activity of reptiles is determined by a complex of variable external factors so that only the following basic rules for the efficient recording of reptiles in central Europe can be made: e All fast movements as well as any kind of disturbing of the ecotope have to be avoided, 0 recording during cool, chilly, rainy or windy weather is rather useless, perhaps with some exceptions, e. g. of the Adder (Vipera berus), e the most advantageous periods for recording are from April to mid-June and mid- August to late September/ early October, • the most advantageous times of day are between 9 and 12 a. m. and again from 17 to 19 p. m., Slow worm (Anguis fragilis) a litt!e earlier and later. The observation opportunities differ from species to species, according to the behaviour, e. g. sunbath- ing or territorial behaviour of species such as in case of the Green lizard (Lacerta viridis) exhibiting its blue throat, e the activity of reptiles is particularly advantageous for recording during sunny days following longer periods of rain as well as during the high humidity (i. e. `close, sultry weather`) before thunderstorms.

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From 10/05/2014 to 05/17/2014 we traveled some selected areas in the south of France together with two terrarium friends. We have already known the lizards that occur in this area from former trips to other countries in southern Europe. Thus, our interest was in the following landscapes, outstanding by their particular circumstances, such as substrate, vegetation, moisture and color. Of course we also wanted to observe and photograph the resident reptiles and amphibians and in particular the „king“ of the Provence – the Ocellated lizard (Timon lepidus lepidus).

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A female Lacerta bilineata from the Cevennes, France, showed strong aggresiv behaviour towards other specimen of this species (a male and a female). In March 1995 it mated with an other female. This `mating` followed the same pattem as in normal matings of this species.

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In 2001 and 2002 I visited the Drulon estate in the Cher Department, France. On this estate, extensive cattle farming, nature and art are tightly interwoven. Apart from many insects, such as the Staghorn Beetle, Lucanus cervus, and Praying Mantis, Mantis religiosa, at least five species of reptile and five amphibian species occur here: Podarcis muralis, Lacerta bilineata, Anguis fragilis, Natrix natrix, Vipera aspis, Triturus helveticus, Triturus cristatus, Bufo bufo, Rana dalmatina and Rana esculenta. The latter species also occurs in a blue colour mutation with some frequency. There is a good chance that additional species will be found here, but I only briefly visited the area twice during the summer months and missed out on the spring – an important time for amphibian inventories.

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It is well known that the current genetic pattern of many European species has been highly influenced by climatic changes during the Pleistocene. While there are many well known vertebrate examples, knowledge about squamate reptiles is sparse. To obtain more data, a range-wide sampling of Lacerta viridis was conducted and phylogenetic relations within the L. viridis complex were analysed using an mtDNA fragment encompassing part of cytochrome b, the adjacent tRNA genes and the noncoding control region. Most genetic divergence was found in the south of the distribution range. The Carpathian Basin and the regions north of the Carpathians and Alps are inhabited by the same mitochondrial lineage, corresponding to Lacerta viridis viridis. Three distinct lineages occurred in the south-eastern Balkans — corresponding to L. v. viridis, L. v. meridionalis, L. v. guentherpetersi— as well as a fourth lineage for which no subspecies name is available. This distribution pattern suggests a rapid range expansion of L. v. viridis after the Holocene warming, leading to a colonization of the northern part of the species range. An unexpected finding was that a highly distinct genetic lineage occurs along the western Balkan coast. Phylogenetic analyses (Bayesian, maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony) suggested that this west Balkan lineage could represent the sister taxon of Lacerta bilineata. Due to the morphological similarity of taxa within the L. viridis complex this cryptic taxon was previously assigned to L. v. viridis. The distribution pattern of several parapatric, in part highly, distinct genetic lineages suggested the existence of several refuges in close proximity on the southern Balkans. Within L. bilineata sensu stricto a generally similar pattern emerged, with a high genetic diversity on the Apennine peninsula, arguing for two distinct refuges there, and a low genetic diversity in the northern part of the range. Close to the south-eastern Alps, three distinct lineages (L. b. bilineata, L. v. viridis, west Balkan taxon) occurred within close proximity. We suggest that the west Balkan lineage represents an early offshoot of L. bilineata that was isolated during a previous Pleistocene glacial from the more western L. bilineata populations, which survived in refuges on the Apennine peninsula.

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Mit dem Verbreitungsatlas der Amphibien und Reptilien Roms legt das vielköpfige Autorenteam ein Werk vor, das -soweit dem Rezensenten bekannt - erstmalig detailliert Auskunft über die urbane Herpetofauna einer mediterranen, international bedeutsamen Großstadt liefert. Allein schon die Abgrenzung des Untersuchungsraumes ist bemerkenswert, die sich nämlich nicht an der Stadtgrenze orientiert, sondern an der ringförmig das Stadtzentrum umgebenden Autobahn (Grande Raccordo Annulare) und damit statt eines administrativen einen funktionalen Charakter besitzt. Die Vielfalt der römischen Stadtlandschaften innerhalb des 360 km² großen Untersuchungsraumes wird anhand zahlreicher Photos belegt, die von der historischen Altstadt und den hochgradig versiegelten Innenstadtbereichen zur Peripherie hin über zunehmend aufgelockerte Stadtteile bis hin zu agrarisch genutzten Randzonen reichen. Gleichzeitig liefern die Photos einen ersten Hinweis auf das Angebot herpetologisch relevanter Lebensraumtypen. Exemplarisch seien hier die archäologischen Fundstätten und historische Parkanlagen aber auch weitere naturnahe Flächen genannt, denen als innerstädtischen Refugialbiotopen eine besondere Bedeutung zukommt. Die Genese des 1996 gestarteten Kartierungsprojektes, die von über hundert Mitarbeitern stammende Datenbasis sowie der verwendete Erfassungsbogen werden kurz vorgestellt. Grundlage der Verbreitungskarten ist ein UTM-km²-Raster. Den eigentlichen Artkapiteln wird ein mit Zeichnungen unterstützer Bestimmungsschlüssel vorangestellt. Die doppelseitigen Artkapitel sind jeweils nach folgendem Schema aufgebaut: Photo, Gesamtverbreitung, Vorkommen in Rom, Verbreitungskarte, tab. Angabe der Präsenzwerte für die Zeitintervalle 1980-1995, 1996-2002, 1980-2002, Biologie und ökologie. Das aktuelle, seit 1996 dokumentierte Artenspektrum setzt sich aus 10 Amhibien- und 16 Reptilienarten zusammen, darunter mit T. scripta eine allochthone Art. Die meisten Amphibienarten sind nur noch relikthaft im Stadtgebiet nachweisbar. So liegen die aktuellen Präsenzwerte von S. terdigitata, R. dalmatina, R. italica, T. carnifex und H. intermedia zwischen 0,3 und 2,2% und selbst T. vulgaris wurde nur in 3% der Untersuchungsraster nachgewiesen. Höhere Präsenzwerte werden für B. viridis (8%) angegeben, aber lediglich der Wasserfroschkomplex R. bergeri / R. kl. hispanica (16,7%) und B. bufo (17,2%) sind im Stadtgebiet von Rom noch relativ verbreitet. Ein deutlich anderes Bild ergibt sich für die Reptilienfauna: Während auch hier neun Arten nur Präsenzwerte zwischen 0,8 und 5% erreichen (in aufsteigender Reihenfolge: N. tesselata, T. hermanni, E. orbicularis, E. quattuorlineata, V. aspis, A. fragilis, T. scripta, E. longissima, N. natrix), sind die übrigen 7 Taxa noch relativ verbreitet und z.T. sogar bemerkenswert häufig. So liegen die Präsenzwerte von Ch. chalcides, H. turcicus und L. bilineata zwischen 15,5 und 17,2 und C. viridiflavus ist mit 19,4 die mit Abstand am weitesten verbreitete Schlangenart in der Großstadt Rom. Noch deutlich höhere Werte werden von T. mauritanica (28%), P. muralis (45,5%) und schließlich P. sicula (62,2) erreicht, die selbst in der Innenstadt regelmäßig auftreten und die die urbanen Raumstrukturen offensichtlich erfolgreich zu nutzen wissen. Ein Vergleich mit älteren Daten belegt, dass vier Arten ausgestorben sind (S. salamandra, B. variegata, C. austriaca, C. girondica) und dass die Bestände mehrerer weiterer Taxa in den letzten Jahren einen dramatischen Rückgang aufweisen (S. terdigitata, B. viridis, R. dalmatina, R. italica, E. orbicularis, L. bilineata, E. quattuorlineata, E. longissima). Abschließend kann dem kompetenten Autorenteam sowie dem Umwelt- und Kulturamt der Stadt Rom, die als Herausgeber des Verbreitungsatlas fungieren, ein großes Lob ausgesprochen werden. Italienische Sprachkenntnisse sind für das Verständnis der Arbeit nicht zwingend notwendig, da die wichtigsten Aussagen des klar gegliederten und sehr ansprechend gestalteten Heftes selbsterklärend sind. Vor diesem Hintergrund ist dieser Herpetofauna von Rom eine weite Verbreitung – und Folgeprojekte aus weiteren Großstädten! - zu wünschen.

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Die Eidechsen im Lahn- und Rheintal gelten als seit Jahrzehnten gut erforscht: Neben der weit verbreiteten Blindschleiche sind Wald-, Zaun- und Mauereidechse und die westliche Smaragdeidechse zu finden. Wichtige, aktuelle Daten enthalten insbesondere die zweibändige Studie der Gesellschaft für Ornithologie und Naturschutz Rheinland.-Pfalz e.V über die Amphibien und Reptilien von Rheinland-Pfalz (1996, Britz et al. (Hrsg.)), die für Rheinland- Pfalz, und die Broschüre der Eheleute Braun (1995), die für den Naturpark Nassau, insbesondere den Rhein-Lahn-Kreis, die Beobachtungen der Vergangenheit zusammenfasst und den aktuellen Stand der Verbreitung wiedergibt. Dennoch erschließt die langjährige Beobachtung vor Ort, wie sie meine über fünfzigjährige Ferienasässigkeit in Bad Ems ermöglicht hat, zusätzliche Erkenntnisse. Das Gebiet der Beobachtungen umfasst im wesentlichen das Lahntal flußab von Limburg und die angrenzenden Mittelgebirge von Westerwald (nördlich) und Taunus (südlich) sowie das rechte Mittelrheintal, vor allem das obere Mittelrheintal (von Koblenz bis Bingen/Rüdesheim), und den angrenzenden Rheingau (von Rüdesheim bis Wiesbaden) (Abb. 1).

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The emerald lizard reaches the northern limit of its distribution in the upper Middle Rhine Valley and has stringent, narrow requirements for its habitat. In the last years, habitats, populations, and the number of individuals have been in decline, mainly because of eutrophy and suboptimal grazing in the protected areas as well as an increasing civilization pressure (including domestic cats, tourists, and presumably poachers), less by the rationalized viticulture. The mere protection of the few remaining habitats is not sufficient. It is necessary to restore the historical habitats and to release captive-bred specimens there. A special initiative for the protection of the green lizards in the upper Middle Rhine Valley is required.

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The emerald lizard reaches the northern limit of its distribution in the upper Middle Rhine Valley and has stringent, narrow requirements for its habitat. In the last years, habitats, populations, and the number of individuals have been in decline, mainly because of eutrophy and suboptimal grazing in the protected areas as well as an increasing civilization pressure (including domestic cats, tourists, and presumably poachers), less by the rationalized viticulture. The mere protection of the few remaining habitats is not sufficient. It is necessary to restore the historical habitats and to release captive-bred specimens there. A special initiative for the protection of the green lizards in the upper Middle Rhine Valley is required.

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For the improvement and the recreation of lizard habitats, the habitat requirements are is of foremost importance. The habitats of today for the West German lizards (the Slow Worm, the Common Lizard, the European Wall Lizard, the Sand Lizard, and the Emerald Lizards) are analysed and shown in photos for clarity. On this basis, the planning and the realization of habitats as well as typical mistakes are discussed.

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Kestert is a village on the right bank of the Rhine in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. At the river bend it extends to a south-faced steep rocky slope of more than 200 meters, where in March 2021 a substantial (15k tons) rock slide occurred which covered not just the road and the tracks but also the western end of the habitat of the Western Emerald Lizard as well as of the Common Wall Lizard, both being legally protected species. In the area, the Western Emeral Lizard is the more susceptible species as it is living here on the north rim of its distribution. The land is managed by the German Railways. After a field visit by naturalists and herpetologists in June 2021 the buried land has been restructured meticulously with a view to technical necessities and the utmost conservation of untouched areas as well as the restoration of the buried sites into well-structured, locally adapted structures carrying local rock and local vegetation. For a rock slide capturing basin, there is now a dry south slope and a moister east slope which runs parallel to a non-perennual creek, which had to be carefully excavated. The measues have been very successful with wall lizards on the south and emerald lizards on the east slopes. The first emerald lizard juveniles have been found venturing towards the east slope in late summer 2023, and in spring 2024 the first adults have extended their territories into the east slope, all originating from neighbouring lands in the north and the east. In spring 2024 the first adult pair of wall lizards was seen in the south slope, obviously originating from the East-running railway tracks. Due to the conservation of vegetation and the speedy and insect-friendly re-vegetation, both species have invaded their sites one year earlier than expected. The original landscape, the slide and the restoration of the site as well as the lizards from the site are shown in the figures, and the plants are listed in the tables.

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Species may respond to climate change by redistributing their distribution areas, but because they do not share the same climatic affinities, they should not respond in the same way. Consequently, distribution shifts of species that are currently found in sympatry may change the extent of the area of sympatry and therefore interspecific interactions at the local scale. In Western Europe, the green lizards Lacerta agilis and Lacerta bilineata live in partial sympatry, share morphological similarities, and can locally compete for resources. In this study, we used a correlative species distribution model (SDM), Maxent, to explore the effects of climate change on the distribution of suitable areas for each species and also within their sympatric area under future scenarios. Our simulations showed that all L. agilis subspecies are more likely to lose suitable habitats throughout their distribution areas whatever the scenario. Conversely, even if L. bilineata should lose less suitable areas, gains may be more restricted. In addition, when looking within the areas both reachable for L. a. agilis and L. bilineata to identify where sympatric areas will occur, we find that they should be spatially restricted. Climatic refugia potentially shared for both lizards may therefore be limited. Consequently, competitive exclusion expected in areas suitable for both species (i.e., the potential area of sympatry) could decrease in the future as climate changes likely lead L. agilis subspecies and L. bilineata to follow different species range shifts trajectories over the 21st century.

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Rates of turnover of oxygen, water and sodium were measured in free-ranging and captive Lacerta viridis in western France during their period of reproduction in May, and again in late autumn prior to their entering winter hibernation. Rates of C02 production and turnover of water and sodium in captive lizards showed little significant variation and these animals appeared to be buffered to a large extent from environmental changes, even though they were exposed to external climatic influences. Overall means for rates of CO2 production in free-ranging individuals did not vary statistically between seasons but considerable individual variation was observed during the breeding season in May. The animals could be divided into `active` and `inactive` groups on the basis of their rate of CO2 production and other significant differences were apparent between these two groups: `active` individuals had increased rates of sodium turnover, lower body water contents and lost body mass during the period of observation whereas the `inactive` individuals gained mass over the same period. These data suggest that not all individuals necessarily participate in the activity associated with breeding in spring in this species and further behavioural studies would seem appropriate in the light of these physiological data. Calculation of the `Water Effectiveness Index` for this species from the ratio of water to energy turnover suggests that Lacerta viridis is a profligate utiliser of available resources when compared with similar-sized species of lizards inhabiting desert environments.

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Rates of turnover of water, energy and sodium were measured in free-ranging and enclosed Lacerta viridis and Vipera aspis at a site in Western France in late summer. Rates of CO2 production did not differ significantly between free-ranging Lacerta and those maintained in large outdoor enclosures and averaged 0.371 ± 0.056 mL(g.hr)-1 which was significantly greater (P < 0.05) than the rate of 0.152 ± 0.02 mL(g.hr)-1 recorded for Vipera aspis living in similar outdoor enclosures. Rates of water, but not sodium, turnover were significantly greater in free-ranging than in enclosed Lacerta (12.03 ± 1.21 mL(100g.day)-1 versus 7.46 ± 1.03 mL(100g.day)-1 respectively), suggesting that the free-ranging individuals, which were captured along a canal, had access to a source of free water not linked with their diet. Field Metabolic Rates (FMR) of Lacerta were positively and significantly correlated with the rate of water turnover and analysis of influx and efflux data indicate that this lizard requires on the average approximately 8mL(100g.day)-1 of water to maintain its hydric balance. A similar analysis suggests that this species requires roughly 1meq(kg.day)-1 of sodium for the maintenance of electrolyte balance. Rates of sodium and water turnover were significantly correlated in captive Lacerta, the diet of which was supplemented daily with mealworms and crickets, but the correlation in the case of animals living by the canal was not significant, indicating again that sources of water and sodium intake were independent in these individuals. Rates of water and sodium turnover were low in the vipers maintained in external enclosures and both elements were in negative balance, as would be expected with non-feeding animals. The data reveal a small but significant intake of sodium however, which was not identified. A regression of water intake versus rate of weight loss suggest that Vipera aspis requires an intake of approximately 2.5mL(100g.day)-1 to maintain hydric balance under these conditions. The data reported here for FMR`s and rates of water turnover are compared with those for other lizards in the literature and suggest that Lacerta viridis falls mid-way between desert and tropical species studied to date. Further work with temperate-living species should prove of value in delineating the physiological capacities of terrestrial reptiles.

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Die Arbeit basiert auf der Messung verschiedener metrischer Charaktere (Kopf-Rumpf-Länge, Kopflänge, maximale Kopfhöhe, maximale Kopfbreite und Rumpf-Länge) an insgesamt knapp 500 nordspanischen Eidechsen. In die Analyse gingen Mesungen an Podarcis bocagei, Podarcis hispanica, Podarcis muralis, Lacerta monticola, Lacerta vivipara, Lacerta lepida, Lacerta schreiberi, Lacerta viridis (=L. bilineata) ein. Demnach ist das ontogenetische Wachstum von Kopf und Rumpf bei männlichen Tieren isometrisch, während Weibchen hingegen ein allometrisches Wachstum des Rumpfes aufweisen. Mit der verwendeten Methodik (Felsenstein) ließ sich der Geschlechtsdimorphismus am besten durch den weiblichen Fortpflanzungsaufwandes (u. a. Gelegegröße) und damit durch die überproportionale Rumpflänge weiblicher Tiere erklären. Bei Arten mit geringer Fruchtbarkeit bzw. konstanter Gelegegröße (hier: Podarcis hispanica) besteht hingegen nur ein geringer Selektionsdruck in Richtung auf große Weibchen. Dann können Männchen zum größten Geschlecht werden. Ebenfalls durchgeführte Größenmessungen an Beutetieren (Magen-Darminhalte) ergaben vergleichsweise gering abweichende Einnischungen männlicher und weiblicher Eidechsen. Eine Analyse der Mechanismen, die zur Ausprägung von Geschlechtsdimorphismen beitragen, ist sicherlich verdienstvoll. Allerdings ist fraglich, ob die hier verwendeten Methoden allein zu einer befriedigenden Klärung führen. Zum einen wurden pro Art nur wenige Individuen (zwischen 22 und 90) untersucht, was - auch nach Ansicht des Autors - statistisch unbefriedigend ist. Wichtiger dürfte aber wohl sein, dass keinerlei Hinweise darauf vorliegen, inwieweit die aus einem relativ begrenzten Gebiet stammenden Freilandfänge als “typisch“ für die Art gelten können. Hinzu kommt, dass sich mit der verwendeten Methode nur die Parameter weiblicher Fortpflanzungsaufwand und unterschiedliche Nahrungseinnischung, nicht jedoch der dritte vom Autor angesprochene Parameter “Kämpfe zwischen den Männchen“ untersuchen lässt. Zumindest in diesem Kontext bedarf es weiterer Daten, die nur durch Verhaltensbeobachtungen lebender Eidechsen zu gewinnen sind.

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The Herpetological Collection of the Trieste Natural History Museum has almost 700 specimens of European Sauria belonging to about 33 taxa, including all the lacertids of northern Adriatic re- gions. The origin of the collection dates back to the foundation of the Museum of Trieste in 1846, but it was increased mainly between 1871 and 1939. The Herpetological Collection of the Trieste Natural History Museum has a great scientific and historical importance; it documents the varia- tion of the composition and distribution of northern Adriatic Sauria fauna during this century, in- cluding endemic varieties typical of little islands.

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A little herpetology during the summer holidays in Tuscany -- Scattered herpetological observations in Tuscany, Italy, from the period 25 July through 4 August 2002 are reported. Emphasis is put on a one week stay at the chåteau Castello di Modanella (locality no. 1, Fig. 1). The following species were observed around the chåteau and in an open forest: Green frogs Rana sp.), Bufo bufo, Anguis fragilis, Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis, P. sicula and Coluber viridiflavus (frontcover, Figs. 2-7). A remarkable posture was observed in A. fragilis as a specimen was held in two closed hands (forming a «hollow«) for about 1 minute. Held in one open hand afterwards, it remained in a hall-like position for 3-4 minutes (Fig. 3). It is interpreted as merely an extreme degree of inactivity. This habit was not recorded by Blosat (1997). Another hitherto unpublished case where A. fragilis in Denmark exhibited the same posture, is also mentioned. Only one L. bilineata was captured, a young of SVL 30.5 mm on 31 July. But since 6.0 mm of the tail length was regenerated (Fig. 4), the specimen was not newly hatched, but it may have had a SVL of some 28 mm at hatching. P. muralis and P. sicula proved abundant in the area, however, P. muralis lived in relatively shaded and cool habitats whereas P. sicula occurred in more open habitats. One C. viridiflavus was found climhing in low branches of a tree along a small dirt road in the forest (see frontcover). Chalcides chalcides was recorded in San Baronto, approx. 15 km south of Pistóia (locality 2). One C. viridiflavus was captured 20 km north of Pistóia (locality 3). At the castle Castello cli Brolio (locality 5) P. sicula was photographed while catching and eating a big moth, Macroglossum stellatarum (Fig. 11). One acdult Rana italica was observed in a forest at least 500 m away from any stream (Figs. 12-13), near Chiusi della Verna on Alpe di Catenhia (locality 6). The new book «The Lizards of Italy and Adjacent Areas» by Corti & Lo Cascio (2002) is also re viewed. In general ii is considered useful for all herpetobogists going to Italy or working with Italian lizards. Eventually, six brief hints for herpetobogists traveling in the Mediterranean are provided.

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The morphology of cephalic scales in Lacertids is organised in well defined geometrical structures. The variation of these elements is related to the underlying bone growth and morphogenesis, but it is also associated with the muscular system and the sutural dynamics. In this paper, the patterns of variation of the cephalic scales have been compared between three common Mediterranean species: Podarcis muralis, Podarcis sicula and Lacerta bilineata. The morphospace generated by the morphological relationships within the cephalic system in these three species is investigated in order to consider their degree of variation and their anatomical peculiarities. Generally, Lacerta is 64% larger than Podarcis, shows a relative reduction of the frontal scale, enlarged fronto-parietal structures, and stretched occipital area. L. bilineata shows the smaller degree of variation within the shape space, while P. muralis shows the highest values. The morphology of the two genera is definitely different mostly because of allometric variation. Non-allometric distinctions between the three species are subtle but detectable. The degree and pattern of variation are interpreted in terms of possible environmental pressures and of functional cranial dynamics associated with the fronto-parietal suture, respectively. In this sense, the structural relationships between bones and scales are of particular interest to further investigate ontogeny and phylogeny in reptiles.

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The Western green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) is a lacertid distributed throughout Mediterranean and Central Europe. Little is known about the morphological variability and sexual shape differences in this species. In this paper, the variation of the cephalic scales in L. bilineata is analysed by means of a geometric morphometric approach. A main structural pattern is characterized by negative allometry of the frontal and interparietal areas, and positive allometry of the parietal and frontoparietal scales. Sexual differences are described both in size and shape. In males, the scales are generally larger, with relative shortening of the frontal area, frontoparietal enlargement, occipital lengthening and bulging of the parietal scales, which compresses and narrows the interparietal and occipital areas midsagittally. This pattern is based on a shared allometric trajectory, with males displaying a peramorphic morphotype. However, males show some shape differences in the occipital area that are not size‐related, and cannot be interpreted in terms of general head enlargement. This structural trajectory can be related to the development of the skull, but the role of soft tissues (temporal, nuchal and masticatory muscles) must also be considered. The development of the jaw and nuchal muscles involved in intra‐ and intersexual behaviours could have played a pivotal role in the evolution of this pattern.

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Almost all species of Amphibians and Reptiles of Central Italy occur in the Tolfa mountains (Civitavecchia, Latium). This is one of the most interesting areas in the whole of Italy as far as the herpetofauna is concerned. It lies not far from Rome and its conservation state is satisfactory; both these facts have favoured and enabled some experimental studies of eco-ethology on such mountains since 1964. The A. describes the species and subspecies of Amphibians and Reptiles recorded in this area, adding some information on their chorology, biology, taxonomy, history and zoogeograph.

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Two species of lacertid lizards, Italian Wall Lizards (= “Ruin” Lizards), Podarcis sicula, and Common Wall Lizards, P. muralis, have been successfully introduced into at least 7 urban and suburban locations in North America, all close to the same general latitudes as their native ranges. The Pennsylvania Podarcis population is apparently extinct but the other Podarcis are expanding their new ranges. Extant Podarcis populations have been studied to a limited extent, and their date of origin, number of released individuals, and source population can be reliably estimated. A third species, Western Green Lacertas, Lacerta bilineata, has been introduced to Kansas, USA but is apparently not spreading.
Whereas other lizard species have been successfully introduced in the southern United States, these lacertid populations are the only successful introductions of lizards into temperate North America. It is not coincidental that they are restricted to urban and suburban areas. Few native North American lizards exploit urban habitats above 35o latitude, so lacertids encounter few native competitors. These lacertid species thrive in urban/suburban areas in southern Europe, and are common commensals with humans there because they are diet and habitat generalists that quickly habituate to new environmental conditions, including the presence of humans. They are also apparently well adapted to the specialized guild of potential predators that inhabit urban areas in both their native and new habitats.

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Seven species of amphibians and reptiles were observed in eleven Sites of Community Importance (SCI) of the Lodi Province (NW Italy). Distribution and rela-tive abundance of amphibians appeared more variable than reptiles. Some species of conservation concern as R. latastei were influenced by habitat physiognomy, i.e. the surface of wooded areas are important in predict presence and relative abundance of this species. SCI with wider surfaces and higher habitat heterogeneity included higher number of species. Species richness, here considered as a raw index of biodiversity value and community quality, was significantly related to SCI area and habitat hetero-geneity; since this significant positive relation is confirmed both for amphibians and reptiles we suggest that, in planning of natural areas, priority must be retained for biotopes able to host the higher number of species.

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We present the results of a two year field survey on the herpetofauna of the Poggi di Prata area in Central Italy. A total of 2,653 records were made on nine Amphibian and sixteen Reptile species. Eleven species had not been recorded before. Bombina pachypus has not been observed since 2004 and represents a conservation concern. Among the main threats to the local herpetofauna, we consider the filling-in of the ponds, the abandonment of the traditional agricultural practices, road kills, killings of snakes by lay people, fish introductions and, possibly, climate change.

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Several investigations and an Atlas project (Progetto Atlante degli Anfibi e Rettili del Molise) were carried out from 2003 to 2007 to assess the occurrence and distribution of Amphibians and Reptiles in the Molise region (Central Italy). Information on the distribution of the species in the study area, habitat types, seasonal activity and other aspects of the species biology were collected and recorded in a database. Data concerning the species occurrence were mapped on a 10x10 km square basis, according to a UTM grid system, such as those utilized in other Italian atlas projects devoted to the analysis of flora and fauna. The study area (Molise) was divided into 71 squared units. About 379 records (1 record = 1 species per 1 locality) were collected to define the present distribution of the 31 species which resulted to occur in the study area to date. All species are native to the area but one, i.e the red-eared turtle (Trachemys scripta), which was introduced in recent years and is native to North America. Amphibians were represented by 13 species: five salamanders (Salamandra salamandra, Salamandrina perspicillata, Lissotriton italicus, L. vulgaris, Triturus carnifex) and eight anurans (Bombina pachypus, Bufo bufo, Pseudepidalea cfr. viridis, Hyla intermedia, Rana dalmatina, R. italica, Pelophylax bergeri, P. kl. bispanicus). Green frogs are represented by a synklepton, i.e. a pair of taxa formed by an hybridogenetic species (Pelophylax kl. bispanicus) and a parental one (P. bergeri). Reptiles consisted of 18 species: four turtles (Eurotestudo bermanni, Emys orbicularis, Trachemys scripta, Caretta caretta), seven lizards (Hemidactylus turcicus, Tarentola mauritanica, Anguis fragilis, Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis, P. sicula, Chalcides chalcides) and seven snakes (Hierophis viridiflavus, Coronella austriaca, Zamenis longissimus, Elaphe quatuorlineata, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, Vipera aspis). Based both on literature and biogeographic data Coronella girondica, Zamenis lineatus, and Vipera ursinii also probably occur in Molise, but these species were not recorded to date and their occurrence should be confirmed by further investigation.

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The cartography of all species of the Montseny Natural Park (NE Iberian), as well as the estimation of their relative abundance and conservation status were carried out in order to evaluate the reptile populations living there. Moreover, a simple, reproducible methodology for monitoring was performed for long-term monitoring. The geographic situation and ecological traits of Montseny Massif have produce a rich reptile fauna: 17 species (8 lizards and 9 snakes) from different origins inhabit the Park; 4 more live in their surroundings. None of them could be considered as endangered but three are rare. The monitoring method consist of normalized transects in three different habitats (evergreen oak forest, meadow and beech forest) and three seasons (srping, summer and autumn) calculating four descriptors: abundance, diversity, richness and eveness. During testing period, 44 transects were carried out and 276 reptiles belonging to 8 especies were detected. More individuals were observed in beech forests than in the other habitats but diversity was higher in meadows. The values of all four descriptors were higher in spring than in the rest of the year. Small lacertid lizards were the most abundant species; Podarcis hispanica was dominant in evergreen oak forests whereas P. muralis was the main species in beech forests. For following campaigns, increment of field effort and concentration in spring are recommended in order to assure detection of big, scarce species.

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Between 1972 and 2002 the author visited regularly the Presidential Estate of Castelporziano, ascertaining the presence of 23 autochthonous (eight amphibians, two turtles, six lizards and seven snakes) and of one allochthonous (Testudo graeca) amphibian and reptile species. Their ecology and behaviour is the subject of the present contribution. Feeding. Studies on feeding have shown the trophic roles played by the different snake species to be complementary. In Castelporziano several snake species often assemble in one same site suitable for laying eggs, shedding skin, hibernating and estivating; this facilitates the egg/young eating habits of Hierophis viridifl avus, mostly at the expenses of Elaphe quatuorlineata. With the exception of Zamenis longissimus all the main snake species of the estate have been found in these sites, included Vipera aspis. Current examples of these sites are Ponte delle Rogare on the Coastal Road and the Depuratore (water purifi cation plant). Reproduction. The presence of very young Hierophis viridifl avus, Coronella austriaca and Vipera aspis in July is reported, in the fi rst case owing to precocious ovulations induced by endocrine modifi cations, released, in their turn, by autumnal matings. One such mating has been observed by the author in the locality Riserva Chiesola. Elaphe quatuorlineata showed a monogamic tendency; it seems that particular hormone conditions induce the females of these species to keep in proximity of their eggs up to september-october when they shed their skin, wich is generally sinchronous with the hatchings. This would seem to guarantee a protection against oophagic predators. Predators. A severe selective pressure on turtle eggs (both aquatic and terrestrial) by a specifi c predator (probably Martes martes) is reported. A bird of prey (probably Buteo buteo) seems to be responsible of the serious damages noticed on the head of a number of Elaphe quatuorlineata specimens. Morphology. The presence of black or very dark specimens of Zamenis longissimus is reported; lack of the superfi cial yellow pigment allows the appearance of the underlying melanophores. Such phenotypes have been found mostly in the wet area south east of Torpaterno. Their offspring are chromatically similar to the parents. The longest snake found was an Elaphe quatuorlineata _ exceeding 206 cm. Population status. Since the middle of the 80’s various types of human induced habitat changes in the estate heavily reduced the amphibian and the reptile populations. Coronella girondica and Natrix tessellata are probably extinct, Testudo hermanni, Chalcides chalcides, Coronella austriaca and Zamenis longissimus show clear signs of decline.

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The previous knowledge on the distribution of the herpetofauna of the Paneveggio-Pale di San Martino Natural Park dates back to the early 90s. After just over a decade the Park has reproposed a herpetofaunistic study in order to update the checklist and the distribution framework of the amphibians and reptiles of the Park and neighboring territory. The study area is located eastern of the Trento province, includes the territory of the Park and a large pre-park area involving a total of 11 municipalities in the province of Trento and 2 in Belluno. The study was carried out in the period 2015-2017 using standard methods for census: Visual Encounter Survey (VES), active research under potential shelters, dip netting, call survey, egg survey, search for dead individuals and exuvie of reptiles. The project also included the collection of signallings from occasional surveyors and herpetological data collected from the open source faunistic platform iNaturalist. A total of 582 data were collected (63.7% on amphibians, 36.3% on reptiles), 40.4% within the Park with a clear prevalence for amphibians (27.7% vs 12.8% reptiles). The updated checklist of the Herpetofauna of the Park and surrounding areas includes Salamandra atra, Salamandra salamandra, Ichthyosaura alpestris, Bufo bufo, Rana temporaria, Anguis veronensis/ A. fragilis, Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis, Zootoca vivipara, Coronella austriaca, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, Vipera aspis, V. berus. Compared to previous research, in addition to reconfirming historical data, the distribution framework of different species has been enriched with new locations of presence and addition of N. tessellata. For S. atra the exclusive presence in the eastern sectors of the Park was confirmed, with a significant increase in the number of 1x1 km cells. Moreover, the lithological structure of ist habitats was almost exclusively of the carbonatic type. By comparing the distributions of S. atra and S. salamandra in the study area it was also evident how the two species are parapatric. Similarly, Podarcis muralis is limited to the southernmost part of the study area, in out-of-park areas and mainly in the valley bottom or in well-exposed slopes and shows a clear distribution differentiation with Z. vivipara with the two species vicarious even in the common altitudinal zone. Generally, no significant decline situations were found for the most widespread species. While for the rarer ones there were three different situations: probable disappearance of the species (eg Bombina variegata), scarcity of data likely due to research defect (eg Lacerta bilineata) or elusiveness of some species (eg Coronella austriaca), actual rarity in the study area (Natrix tessellata).

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The previous knowledge on the distribution of the herpetofauna of the Paneveggio-Pale di San Martino Natural Park dates back to the early 90s. After just over a decade the Park has reproposed a herpetofaunistic study in order to update the checklist and the distribution framework of the amphibians and reptiles of the Park and neighboring territory. The study area is located eastern of the Trento province, includes the territory of the Park and a large pre-park area involving a total of 11 municipalities in the province of Trento and 2 in Belluno. The study was carried out in the period 2015-2017 using standard methods for census: Visual Encounter Survey (VES), active research under potential shelters, dip netting, call survey, egg survey, search for dead individuals and exuvie of reptiles. The project also included the collection of signallings from occasional surveyors and herpetological data collected from the open source faunistic platform iNaturalist. A total of 582 data were collected (63.7% on amphibians, 36.3% on reptiles), 40.4% within the Park with a clear prevalence for amphibians (27.7% vs 12.8% reptiles). The updated checklist of the Herpetofauna of the Park and surrounding areas includes Salamandra atra, Salamandra salamandra, Ichthyosaura alpestris, Bufo bufo, Rana temporaria, Anguis veronensis/ A. fragilis, Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis, Zootoca vivipara, Coronella austriaca, Natrix natrix, N. tessellata, Vipera aspis, V. berus. Compared to previous research, in addition to reconfirming historical data, the distribution framework of different species has been enriched with new locations of presence and addition of N. tessellata. For S. atra the exclusive presence in the eastern sectors of the Park was confirmed, with a significant increase in the number of 1x1 km cells. Moreover, the lithological structure of ist habitats was almost exclusively of the carbonatic type. By comparing the distributions of S. atra and S. salamandra in the study area it was also evident how the two species are parapatric. Similarly, Podarcis muralis is limited to the southernmost part of the study area, in out-of-park areas and mainly in the valley bottom or in well-exposed slopes and shows a clear distribution differentiation with Z. vivipara with the two species vicarious even in the common altitudinal zone. Generally, no significant decline situations were found for the most widespread species. While for the rarer ones there were three different situations: probable disappearance of the species (eg Bombina variegata), scarcity of data likely due to research defect (eg Lacerta bilineata) or elusiveness of some species (eg Coronella austriaca), actual rarity in the study area (Natrix tessellata).

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The karyotypes of 4 european species of Lacertidae were determined in hepatic tissue cultures. The chromosomal formula typical of the Lacertidae (2n = 36M + 2 m) was found in L. muralis, L. sicula campestris and L. viridis; no morphologically differentiated sex chromosomes were identified in these 3 species. A population of L. vivipara caught in the Massif Central (France) shows the following diploid number: 2 n ~ ? = 3 2 A + Z a Z~ W, 2 n d = 3 2 A + Z ~ Z~ Z2Z2. The existence of the submetacentric W in the female karyotype can be explained by centric fusion between two non homologous telocentric chromosomes. It is possible that only some populations show this rearrangement. The finding of two types of heterogamety, XY and ZW, in the same Order contributes to our knowledge of the evolution of sex chromosomes among Vertebrates.

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The checklist and a provisional atlas of the amphibian and reptile species occurring in the Lepini Mountains (Latium, central Italy) are reported. Eleven species of amphibians and seventeen species of reptiles have been found in the study area. These species represent 85% of the entire central Italian herpetofauna. One species (Testudo hermanm) seems to be recently extinct probably due to over-collecting and habitat perturbance, and at present occurs in semi natural conditions only (specimens introduced by man). The dominant species are Salamandrina terdigitata, Triturus carnifex, Triturus vulgaris, Bufo bufo, Rana italica, Rana sinklepton esculenta, Lacerta viridis, Podarcis muralis, Podarcis sicula, Chalcides chalcides, Hierophis viridillavus, and Natrix natrix. From the biogeographical point of view, the most interesting species are Salamandrina terdigitata, Bombina variegata, Rana italica, Podarcis sicula, Chalcides chalcides, Elaphe quatuorlineata, and Coronella girondica.

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elective predation can be an important force driving the evolution of organisms. In particular, sex-biased predation is expected to have implications for sexual selection, sex allocation and population dynamics. In this study, we analysed sex differences in the predation of the western green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) by the Eurasian kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) during the reproductive season. In addition, we investigated whether the rate of predation differed during the 8-year study period and among the three habitats studied. We collected lizard remains from nest boxes of kestrels. Freshly killed lizards were sexed by visual inspection, whilst the sex of head remains was assigned by analysing the cephalic scale morphology using geometric morphometrics. Our results show that the risk of being predated by a kestrel in our population was overall about 3.55 times higher for males than for females. To our knowledge this is the first study showing a male-biased predation in a lizard species. The selective predation of males was consistent between years over the 8-year study period (1999–2006) and also consistent between the three types of kestrel hunting habitat. Overall predation rates on lizards differed between habitats, depending on the year. We propose that the observed sex-biased predation is mainly due to sex differences in lizard behaviour.

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n the last two decades, there has been a great deal of interest in the morphology and anatomy of the lizard skull in an ecological and evolutionary perspective. However, the relationship between variations in many key anatomical features remains largely unknown. Using microtomography and geometric morphometrics, we examined the relationship between bones and scales associated with the parietal foramen in the three lizards species most common in the Italian peninsula: Podarcis muralis, P. sicula, and Lacerta bilineata. The imprints of the scales are clearly recognizable on the outer bone surface, and this may suggest a structural interaction between these elements. The temporal osteoderms are visible in the larger males and in the larger females of L. bilineata, but they are absent in the smaller specimens of L. bilineata and in all Podarcis specimens. Two parallel rows of pterygoid teeth are present in all the specimens of L. bilineata and are absent in the smaller male of L. bilineata and in both Podarcis species. Cheek osteoderms occurred only in the largest specimens of our sample (i.e., large L. bilineata), being possibly related to hyperostotic processes and densitometric thresholds more than to phylogeny. Minor differences may be also associated with the form of the parietal foramen. In absolute terms the parietal foramen tends to be largest in L. bilineata but in relation to skull length the foramen tends to be larger in P. muralis. In this latter species the foramen is also more elongated. In all three species the fronto-parietal suture occupies a similar location relatively to the scale spatial organization. A shared allometric pattern shows that the main vault enlargement can be localised at the areas anterior to the fronto-parietal suture, providing further information on the possible morphogenetic dynamics associated with the interaction between scales and bones around this structure.

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In this work, a check-list of the species of Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds and Mammals observed in the district “mentanese-cornicolano archipelago” of the Roman Campagna, north-east from Rome city area (Latium, Central Italy), a relict of mesoxerophilous woods with cultivated land, urban and suburban areas penetrated by infrastructures, is presented. We obtained data for 158 species among which 10 Amphibians, 16 Reptiles, 99 Birds and 33 Mammals, a quite exhaustive check-list; however, potentially gaps -species living in the territory but yet unknown, e.g. bats among Mammals- are discussed too. A special emphasis has been given to the numerous species of relevant interest from the ecological and conservational viewpoints. In the bibliography 40 papers are quoted which represent a quite exhaustive list devoted to the terrestrial vertebrates of the area.

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We report the results of 78 field surveys, from October 2016 to May 2018, on the herpetofauna of the PRAN (Regional Archaeological Natural Park) Inviolata (Guidonia Montecelio, Roma). The protected area herpetological checklist shows 18 species, six amphibians and 12 reptiles (one of which is an invasive alien). The article briefly describes phenology and distribution of each species together with some ecoethological notes.

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We discuss the herpetofauna of some small natural reserves in the Roman Campagna, also known as the “Mentanese Archipelago” district, northeast of Rome’s suburban areas. These reserves were established mainly in 1997, and are part of a mosaic landscape composed of fragmentary woodlands, urban developments, and agricultural areas with scattered streams, water points and buildings. A field study with the main aim of recording the herpetological diversity of three protected areas was carried out over the course of twenty-five years. Species richness is as follows: 1) Nature Reserve Nomentum with 12 reptiles and 6 amphibians. 2) Nature Reserve Macchia di Gattaceca and Macchia del Barco including “Pozzo del Merro” (one of the deepest sinkholes of the world). This second reserve is split into three distinct fragments: the xeric area of Macchia di Gattaceca with 11 reptiles and 2 amphibians; the wet area of Macchia del Barco with 10 reptiles and 6 amphibians; and the pin-point sinkhole area of “Pozzo del Merro” with 7 reptiles and 5 amphibians. 3) Natural and Archaeological Park of Inviolata with 13 reptiles and 7 amphibians. Using QGis software, we were able to assign to each parcel (wood, agricultural land, still water, running water, buildings) its percentage value of extent. The results of the QGis application enabled us to infer a positive effect, in terms of conservation of the populations of native herpetofauna species, of expanding non-intensive agricultural land. In addition, the presence of water bodies such as pools, ponds and flooded sinkholes in agricultural patches plays an outstandingly important role for the maintenance of herpetological diversity in a fragmented landscape.

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In einer retrospektiven Durchsicht des Datenmaterials von 41 zeckenbefallenen Eidechsen zeigt sich in der Paarungszeit bei männlichen Tieren eine deutlich höhere Zeckenlast als bei weiblichen. Außerhalb der Paarungszeit ist die Zeckenlast bei beiden Geschlechtern annähernd gleich. Der Unterschied wird erklärt durch die höhere Bewegungsaktivität von Männchen in der Paarungszeit im Vergleich zu Weibchen. Dadurch sind Männchen einem höheren Risiko ausgesetzt, auf wirtsuchende Zecken zu treffen.

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A witness reports the release of 100 Western Green Lizards Lacerta bilineata, originating from the canton of Ticino, Switzerland in the early 1950ies. The place of release is a residence area with garden-surrounded houses at Hasenberg Mountain within the city limits of Stuttgart, Germany. A permanent population established itself, remained undetected until 1996 and is meanwhile observed by the public. The area was formerly inhabited by Sand Lizards Lacerta agilis who vanished ca. 1970. The present accompanying reptile fauna consists of Slow Worms Anguis fragilis and Smooth Snakes Coronella austriaca. Since 2017 Common Wall Lizards are observed, phenotypically assigned to Podarcis muralis maculiventris of the Southern Alps lineage.

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A witness reports the release of 100 Western Green Lizards Lacerta bilineata, originating from the canton of Ticino, Switzerland in the early 1950ies. The place of release is a residence area with garden-surrounded houses at Hasenberg Mountain within the city limits of Stuttgart, Germany. A permanent population established itself, remained undetected until 1996 and is meanwhile observed by the public. The area was formerly inhabited by Sand Lizards Lacerta agilis who vanished ca. 1970. The present accompanying reptile fauna consists of Slow Worms Anguis fragilis and Smooth Snakes Coronella austriaca. Since 2017 Common Wall Lizards are observed, phenotypically assigned to Podarcis muralis maculiventris of the Southern Alps lineage.

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The taxon name Lacerta varia has been independently coined four times. Such homonymy can result in nomen-clatural instability. We show that all but one name are nomina oblita. This way we protect the longstanding name Lacerta bilineataDaudin, 1802. With respect to the species epithet varia in combination with the genus name Lacerta only Lacerta varia by Shaw in White, 1790 is available for nomenclatural purposes representing Varanusvarius (Shaw in White, 1790).

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In the heart of the French countryside, recipes developed around the biggest snakes, ways to prepare Lizards identical to other countries are still in the minds of ourelders. We also report here a testimony of consumption of the ocellated lizard and of an unexpected use of its skin.

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Während eines einwöchigen Urlaubs im Bleniotal (Tessin, Schweiz) konnten die beiden dort lebenden Lacertidenarten, Lacerta bilineata bilineata und Podarcis muralis, in ihren Biotopen beobachtet werden.

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South-western Europe has a rich diversity of lacertid lizards. In this study, we evaluated the occupancy patterns and niche segregation of five species of lacertids, focusing on large-bodied species (i.e., adults having >75 mm snout-vent length) that occur in south-western Europe (Italian to the Iberian Peninsula). We characterized the niches occupied by these species based on climate and vegetation cover properties. We expected some commonality among phylogenetically related species, but also patterns of habitat segregation mitigating competition between ecologically equivalent species. We used multivariate ordination and probabilistic methods to describe the occupancy patterns and evaluated niche evolution through phylogenetic analyses. Our results showed climate niche partitioning, but with a wide overlap in transitional zones, where segregation is maintained by species-specific responses to the vegetation cover. The analyses also showed that phylogenetically related species tend to share large parts of their habitat niches. The occurrence of independent evolutionary lineages contributed to the regional species richness favored by a long history of niche divergence.

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The present paper shows the results deriving from an eleven-year research (1990-2000) on the Salento herpetofauna (S.E. Italy). The methodology used in compiling the atlas, based on computerized archives (Excel 2000‚) stored in data bank is explained. The cartographic reference for topographic data is IGMI 1:500.000 map; the UTM (10x10 km square grid system) used in drawing out the maps of herpetological data is based on this reference. Six amphibian and nineteen reptile species have been counted in the census, twenty of these are autochtonous, two were newly introduced and acclimatised, three are marine turtles. Of the autochtonous species, 20,0% are Euroasiatic, 30,0% are Mediterranean, 40% are European and 10,0% are endemic.

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The herpetofauna of the Tuscan Islands (Central Italy) is well known and represents an ideal subject to understand the role of current and historical factors responsible for biogeographical patterns in a complex archipelago. Multidimensional Scaling, cluster analyses, species-area relationships, Mantel tests and co-occurrence statistics were used to investigate the influence of current geography and Pleistocene connections with the mainland on the structure of insular communities. Although reptile colonization likely occurred via land bridges for islands that were connected to the mainland in the Pleistocene, a long time relaxation (species extinction by island habitat loss after disconnection and new colonization by over sea dispersal or human-assisted introductions) equilibrated the faunas according to island area. Biogeographical similarities among islands increased for islands located farther from Corsica and Tuscany, thus suggesting that, for remote islands, interisland faunal exchanges occurred more frequently than mainland-island colonization. Also, a possible influence of Pleistocene geography emerged more clearly when populations suspected to be introduced by man were removed. Co-occurrence analyses indicated a nonrandom distribution influenced by island area and distance, suggesting that the time elapsed since post-Pleistocene disconnection may have reshaped biogeographical similarities by an increase in competition resulting from reduction in island areas and introduction of certain species. From a conservation viewpoint, the land-bridge distribution of organisms with poor mobility should be carefully considered in conservation biogeography, because depletion of island populations cannot be balanced by new immigrations from the mainland, whereas introduction of nonnative species may have a negative impact on the original fauna.

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An analysis of a 30-year dataset (1985–2014) concerning a herpetofauna assemblage studied in a site of conservation concern (Northern Italy) is reported with the aim of evidencing a trend in species richness which may reveal the most sensitive ones (i.e., the first to go extinct locally). Our results point to a progressive loss of species (nested species relaxation) which were not replaced over the study period and consequently to a decline in species richness. Among the amphibians, two thresholds in mean species richness were evident in the mid and late 1990s, respectively, whereas reptiles showed a significant threshold only at the end of the 1990s. An inductive hypothesis to explain the abrupt relaxation in species richness in the mid and late 1990s may involve a combination of `pulse` or `press` perturbations at different scales. Moreover, although our long-term standardized study suffers from some limitations, our data clearly indicate a different species-specific sensitivity which could be useful to identify focal species of conservation concern. However, further comparisons with data set collected from long-term and wide-ranging studies are needed to confirm our temporal thresholds, in order to infer a more general model from this local pattern.

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An unusual behavioural interaction between a female of Lacerta bilineata and a male of Podarcis muralis is described.

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Climatic conditions changing over time and space shape the evolution of organisms at multiple levels, including temperate lizards in the family Lacertidae. Here we reconstruct a dated phylogenetic tree of 262 lacertid species based on a supermatrix relying on novel phylogenomic datasets and fossil calibrations. Diversification of lacertids was accompanied by an increasing disparity among occupied bioclimatic niches, especially in the last 10 Ma, during a period of progressive global cooling. Temperate species also underwent a genome- wide slowdown in molecular substitution rates compared to tropical and desert-adapted lacertids. Evaporative water loss and preferred temperature are correlated with bioclimatic parameters, indicating physiological adaptations to climate. Tropical, but also some popu- lations of cool-adapted species experience maximum temperatures close to their preferred temperatures. We hypothesize these species-specific physiological preferences may con- stitute a handicap to prevail under rapid global warming, and contribute to explaining local lizard extinctions in cool and humid climates.

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Since 1993 the Museo Civico di Scienze Naturali of Induno Olona coordinates the Amphibians and Reptiles` census in the Province of Varese, to improve the knowledge of its herpetofauna, the distribution of the various species, as well as the number of their populations. At present three species of Urodela, seven of Anura, one of Testudines, five of Sauria and five of Serpentes have been catalogued, Podarcis sicula and Zootoca vivipara are new to Varese Province.

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The worldwide decline of amphibians and reptiles is a serious threat to the maintenance of biodiversity. The nature reserve “Bosco della Fontana” is one of the last plain forests still standing in the human-dominated landscape of the Po plain (northern Italy). The herpetofauna of this forest is composed of seven amphibian and ten reptile species, most of which are declining in the Po plain; two of these are not indigenous. Rana latastei and Vipera aspis are present in large populations; Zamenis longissimus is also present in a smaller but nevertheless remarkable population. The nature reserve “Bosco della Fontana” has recently been declared an “ARE” (Herpetologically Relevant Area) by the Societas Herpetologica Italica for the richness of its herpetofauna and the skilled conservation management carried out there by the “Corpo Forestale dello Stato”. This paper illustrates the threats to the herpetofauna of this area, and suggests some conservational measures.

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Photographs of a fight between Lacerta viridis and Coluber viridiflavus are presented. The photographs were made north of Varese, Italy. The fight lasted about 30-40 minutes, at the end the snake disappeared with the lizard in its mouth.

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The observations on amphibians and reptiles of Lake Endine (Val Cavallina - Bergamo) are reported. Between 1992 and 1996, 7 species of reptiles and 7 of amphibians were observed, among which the presence of Rana latastei is particularly.

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Partial DNA sequences from three mitochondrial (cytochrome b, 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA) and two nuclear (-fibrinogen intron 7 and C-mos) genes were used to estimate the phylogenetic relationships among all eight extant species of green lizards, Lacerta sensu stricto, and many currently recognized subspecies. All eight species form a monophyletic group. L. agilis, L. schreiberi and L. strigata are genetically well differentiated species. L. trilineata and L. pamphylica are not monophyletic units based on analyses of the -fibrinogen intron 7. Lacerta media is closely related to some Lacerta trilineata. L. bilineata and L. viridis are closely related, and recognition of L. bilineata as a distinct species makes L. viridis paraphyletic also. For both L. bilineata and L. viridis, some subspecies appear to remain in their southern glacial refugia, while a single genetic entity shows successfully postglacial expansion. The topology derived from C-mos variation is concordant with that derived from mtDNA, with substitutions occurring at a similar rate to that of transversions in the rRNA genes. Although C-mos is typically used at deeper taxonomic levels it is also phylogenetically informative within green lizards. -fibrinogen intron 7, typically used for assessing phylogenetic relationships among bird species, is a useful phylogenetic marker for reptiles also, showing considerable variation between species. There is not complete concordance between estimates of relationships derived from the mtDNA and nuclear markers, probably because rapid diversification led to incomplete lineage sorting in the green lizards. Introgression could also be occuring between some species.

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Infestation by ticks affects several vertebrate groups, including reptiles. Castor bean tick Ixodes ricinus is the most widespread tick species. Here we report an impressive tick infestation of a male green lizard Lacerta viridis/bilineata found in 2012 in the vicinity of Bilpa cave in the Kolpa valley, Slovenia. Lizards as tick hosts can play an important role in the life cycle of I. ricinus and may also be potential vectors of Lyme disease

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Artificial shelters: a technique for completing species check-lists and for monitoring reptile populations. We present a bibliographic review on the use of artificial shelters to obtain herpetological species check-lists inWestern Europe. The methodologies in the different studies are compared. Three different kinds of listing are distinguished: qualitative, semi-qualitative, and quantitative.Comparisons across studies show that the use of shelter-plates highly favours the detection of at least five species (Anguis fragilis, Coluber viridiflavus, Coronella austriaca, Elaphe longissima, and Natrix natrix). Plates also allow the detection of juvenile individuals more reliably than the visual searching method. Shelter use increases with time. More variation was found in the detection of Viperids, Lacertids and some amphibians. For these species, artificial shelter use is useful for qualitative listings but the procedure should be improved for quantitative listings.

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Agricultural landscapes cover a large portion of the planet and the intensification of farming is a primary cause of biodiversity loss. Changes in agricultural practices have been particularly marked in Western Europe over the last century. Hedgerow landscapes consist of complex mosaics of pastures, ponds, and hedges connected with forest patches that are favourable for biodiversity. Recently, however, these traditional farming landscapes have been profoundly simplified with a massive reduction in hedgerows. Reptiles are currently facing an important global decline, but the impact of the intensification of agricultural practices on their populations remains understudied. We studied the common European adder Vipera berus and the western green lizard Lacerta bilineata in Western France in a hedgerow land scape undergoing agricultural intensification. We first quantified the habitat changes (density of hedgerows and forest edges) from 1950 to 2015. Second, we docu mented changes in the distribution of V. berus and L. bilineata in the area between two surveys conducted 18 years apart (survey 1: 1994–1997 and survey 2: 2012– 2015). The two species were more likely to be found at sites with dense hedge rows and forest edges at the first survey. We detected marked range contractions in the distributions of both species over 18 years (92% and 74%, respectively, for V. berus and L. bilineata). Population monitoring of the adder with capture-mark recapture at two sites revealed marked declines related to the degradation of hedgerows and closure of the forest patches. Our results underline the importance of traditional agricultural landscapes for biodiversity conservation and the value of squamate reptiles as indicator speciesed in such landscapes.

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Des sessions de terrain réalisées en 2011 et 2012 dans la Forêt de Domnaiche ont permis d`observer cinq espèces de reptiles, dont trois lézards: Podarcis muralis, Lacerta bilineata, Anguis fragilis et deux serpents: Natrix natrix, Vipera berus ainsi que huit espèces d`amphibiens et un hybride, dont trois urodèles: Salamandra salamandra, Lissotriton helveticus, Triturus marmoratus et six anoures: Alytes obstetricans, Bufo bufo, Hyla arborea, Rana dalmatina, Pelophylax ridibundus et Pelophylax kl. esculentus.

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The first reports of sightings of Lacerta bilineata or Lacerta viridis at the Spitzberg near Tübingen go back to the 19th century. It is only in the last few years that sightings and interest in the bright green lizards have increased. However, the population has hardly been studied, so it is unclear whether it is a population of Lacerta bilineata, Lacerta viridis or even both. The exact distribution area and the population size are also unknown. What is certain, however, is that the occurrence on the Spitzberg is due to one or more exposures and thus represents an allochthonous island population. In the context of this work, the population size could be roughly estimated and the habitat preferences of the species on the northern edge of their range could be clarified. Furthermore, with the help of citizens, the distribution area was limited to the southern slopes of the Spitzberg and the nature reserve Spitzberg-Ödenburg. The investigation of the reptile fauna revealed a potential endangerment of the indigenous sand lizard by the green lizard. By recording the habitat preferences, it was possible to discuss potential dispersal areas, especially near Wurmlingen, Wendelsheim and on the southwest slopes of the Schönbuch. Based on the results, recommendations for measures relating to the population management of the green lizards on the Spitzberg were developed.


Amendment and comments by GUNTRAM DEICHSEL (June 2021):
The results of haplotype determinations were available only after filing in this thesis. All 12 swabs analyzed identify the species as Lacerta bilineata. All sighted juveniles displayed green coloration elements. This matches my own observations, confirming L. bilineata as the species on Spitzberg montain. Hence no objective hints to the other species taken into consideration, namely L. viridis, were found. However, an anecdotal report relates the release of one specimen of this species on Spitzberg mountain.
The comparison of different extrapolation methods with differing results makes the problems of population estimates apparent. For this reason, ULRICH SCHULTE recommends in a written note to myself to confine reports to observation frequencies.
The tick species Ixodes rhizinus is mentioned in chapter 1.1.7 as an expoarasite. The correct spelling is I. ricinus. Strict protection of L. viridis and L. bilineata according to appendix IV oft he FFH guidelines , mentioned in chapter 4.5.1, applies to national occurrences of these species in Germany only.

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We present the first comprehensive DNA barcoding study of German reptiles and amphibians representing likewise the first on the European herpetofauna. A total of 248 barcodes for all native species and subspecies in the country and a few additional taxa were obtained in the framework of the projects ‘Barcoding Fauna Bavarica’ (BFB) and ‘German Barcode of Life’ (GBOL). In contrast to many invertebrate groups, the success rate of the identification of mitochondrial lineages representing species via DNA barcode was almost 100% because no cases of Barcode Index Number (BIN) sharing were detected within German native reptiles and amphibians. However, as expected, a reliable identification of the hybridogenetic species complex in the frog genus Pelophylax was not possible. Deep conspecific lineages resulting in the identification of more than one BIN were found in Lissotriton vulgaris, Natrix natrix and the hybridogenetic Pelophylax complex. A high variety of lineages with different BINs was also found in the barcodes of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis), confirming the existence of many introduced lineages and the frequent occurrence of multiple introductions. Besides the reliable species identification of all life stages and even of tissue remains, our study highlights other potential applications of DNA barcoding concerning German amphibians and reptiles, such as the detection of allochthonous lineages, monitoring of gene flow and also noninvasive sampling via environmental DNA. DNA barcoding based on COI has now proven to be a reliable and efficient tool for studying most amphibians and reptiles as it is already for many other organism groups in zoology.

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Das Vorkommen der Smaragdeidechse in der Nähe von Runkel im hessischen Teil des Lahntals wird beschrieben. Es bleibt zu klären, ob es sich hierbei tatsächlich um Tiere der Westlichen Smaragdeidechse handelt. Selbst bei eindeutiger Bestätigung einer Population von Lacerta bilineata bleibt offen, ob es sich eindeutig um autochthone Tiere handelt. Faktoren, die für ein autochthones Vorkommen sprechen, werden aufgeführt

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Presentamos nuevos registros de distribución en malla UTM de 10x10 km para Psammodromus algirus, Coronella austriaca y Vipera latastei en Soria, Castilla y León (España). Así mismo reportamos la sintopía de Podarcis muralis y Podarcis liolepis en dicha área. Adicionalmente, proveemos información detallada de la ocurrencia de 17 especies de reptiles y anfibios como contribución al esfuerzo de elaboración de mapas de herpetofauna de Soria.

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Several recent papers have reviewed the life and work of French herpetologist Louis Amédée Lantz. They have detailed the composition of his collections deposited in several museums. However, since then, several other important specimens from his collections deposited at the Natural History Museum (NHM, UK) have come to light and we here present all of them in detail. We discovered paralectotypes of Lacerta saxicola obscura Lantz & Cyrén (BMNH 1918.11.21.5–7), syntypes of Lacerta boemica Sukhov (BMNH 1960.1.4.26–30, BMNH 1965.337–342) and Lacerta viridis media Lantz & Cyrén (BMNH 1960.1.4.25, 1966.512). We also identified numerous specimens from the French Mediterranean islands in Lantz’s collection deposited at the NHM, some of which represent the first reported specimens of their species from certain islands. We here provide data on all these specimens. We also place the Mediterranean island specimens from the Lantz collection in their historical context and emphasize the historical and taxonomic value of these collections.

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In order to elucidate mitochondrial evolution and resolve the phylogeny of the widely distributed European green lizards(Lacerta viridiscomplex), we determined 16 mitochondrial genomes from a representative sampling of the fourpreviously identified major clades corresponding toL. bilineata(western distribution range),L. viridis(most of theeastern distribution range), the unnamed Adriatic (or West Balkan) and the Turkishþsouth-eastern European clades.The mitogenomes were on average 17,162 bp long with a canonical vertebrate gene inventory of 13 protein-codinggenes, 22 transfer RNA genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes and a long non-coding Control Region. We detected severalalmost completely clade-specific insert and tandem-repeat signatures. Phylogenetic analyses using all 13 protein-codinggenes as well as rRNA- and tRNA-coding sequences from a total of 20 mitogenomes inferred a resolved branchingpattern of the four divergent clades. The Turkish clade is strongly supported as sister to all other members of thecomplex. Within the monophylum comprising the remaining clades,L viridisis sister to a clade containingL. bilineataand the Adriatic clade. Unexpectedly, one specimen of western Italy (Calambrone, Pisa)–which is within thedistribution range ofL. bilineata–clustered together with the Adriatic clade with high bootstrap support, calling forfurther research on the biogeography of theL. viridiscomplex. Integrating our results with those of previous studiessuggest that the lineages have reached the level of distinct taxa, but to determine whether they have become fullyindependent lineages on the species level requires further research that tackles nuclear genomic variation of all fourclades and the viability of hybrids and gene flow within putative hybrid zones.

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An updated checklist is presented for the amphibian and reptile fauna of Croatia. According to historical and recent literature sources, 20 amphibian and 41 reptile species have been recorded so far. Two reptile species, Blanus strauchi and Typhlops vermicularis, are considered doubtful, although there are individual museum vouchers for the country. Presence of a total of 59 species can be considered valid, with two additional considered doubtful. This paper summarizes data from 700 scientific and popular publications, which is the first attempt to publish a complete Croatian herpetological bibliography. Full bibliography is also given for all occurring species and constitutes a basis for future publications.

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A phylogeographic analysis of eight species complexes of European reptiles was performed using different molecular methods. While mitochondrial genes (mainly cytochrome b sequences) enabled conclusions about phylogeography and differentiation, additional application of bisexually inherited markers provided information about speciation stages. As species with similar distribution patterns in southern and Central Europe were selected, matching phylogeographic patterns are useful for drawing general conclusions: (1) The species complexes are in different stages of speciation. In some cases, cryptic species were detected. (2) Highest genetic diversity occurs in southern Europe, the Near East and the Caucasus, regions corresponding with glacial refuges in the Iberian, Apennine and Balkan Peninsulas as well as in Turkey and the Caucasus. Often, several microrefugia must have existed in close neighbourhood. Additional microrefugia were located in southern France and in the Carpathian Basin. (3) North Africa and the Middle East did not serve as glacial refuges for Central or northern European lineages and are typically inhabited by independent clades. (4) Evidence for multiple range retractions and expansions, which were postulated for the times of Pleistocene climatic oscillations, could be found in the Balkans, but in Central Europe their traces have been wiped out by the last glacial. Only the Holocene invasion has left imprints in the genomes from this area. (5) Central and northern Europe were recolonized from Balkan and Pontic refugia in the Holocene. (6) Groups from the Iberian and Apennine Peninsulas rarely conquered other regions. This limitation can be attributed to the barrier function of the Pyrenees and the Alps.

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Sieben Artenkomplexe europäischer Reptilien wurden einer phylogeographischen Analyse unterzogen, wobei verschiedene molekulargenetische Methoden eingesetzt wurden. Während mitochondriale Gene (hier vor allem Cytochrom b Sequenzen) weit reichende Aussagen über die phylogeographische Differenzierungsgeschichte zuließen, war der zusätzliche Einsatz bisexuell vererbter Marker hilfreich bei der Entscheidung, welches Stadium die Speziationsprozesse bereits erreicht haben. Da Arten mit ähnlichen Verbreitungsmustern in Süd- und Mitteleuropa gewählt wurden, konnten übereinstimmende phylogeographische Verzweigungsmuster genutzt werden, einige allgemeine Schlussfolgerungen zu ziehen: ● Die höchste genetische Diversität der untersuchten Artenkomplexe wird bei ihren Vertretern in Südeuropa, Kleinasien und im Kaukasus erreicht. Die Differenzierung erfolgte offenbar in den pleistozänen Refugialräumen. ● Die Speziationsprozesse sind unterschiedlich weit fortgeschritten. In einigen Fällen konnten bereits kryptische Arten erkannt werden. ● Multiple Arealretraktionen und -expansionen während der pleistozänen Klimaschwankungen sind zu postulieren und auf dem Balkan auch nachweisbar, aber in Mitteleuropa sind ihre Spuren verwischt; erst die holozäne Invasion ist dort genetisch präsent. ● Der Balkan und die Pontische Region waren Ursprungsregionen aktiver Einwanderer nach Mittel- und Nordeuropa. ● Gruppen von der Iberischen und der Apenninhalbinsel eroberten nur selten andere Regionen. Die Barrierefunktion der Pyrenäen und der Alpen dürfte hierfür verantwortlich sein.

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It has been proposed that Lacerta viridis magnifica Sobolevssky, 1930 represents an extinct species or subspecies of green lizard endemic to the southern Crimea. Using NGS protocols optimized for heavily degraded DNA, we sequenced the complete mi- togenome of one of the originally formalin-preserved specimens collected in the late 19th century. A comparison with sequence data of other green lizards revealed that L. v. magnifica is a junior synonym of the northern subspecies of the western green lizard (L. b. bilineata Daudin, 1802), which occurs at least 1,500 km away, beyond the distribution ranges of other green lizards. In medieval times, a Genoese colony existed in the Crimean region where the extinct green lizards occurred. Until the early 20th century, close ties to Italy persisted, and locals of Genoese descent sent their children for education to Italy, where L. b. bilineata occurs. This suggests that the extinct Crimean green lizards have been introduced accidentally or intentionally from Italy. Our study exemplifies the value of historical formalin-preserved museum specimens for clarifying the status of questionable rare or extinct taxa.

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We sequenced the mitochondrial genome of the Western green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) using Illumina technology and additional Sanger sequencing. The assembled 17 086 bp mitogenome had a GC content of 40.32% and consisted of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, two rRNA genes, and one control region (CR), with a gene order identical to the chordate consensus. In addition, we re-sequenced the mitogenome of the closely related Eastern green lizard L. viridis using the same techniques as for L. bilineata. The mitogenomes of L. bilineata and L. viridis showed a sequence identity of 94.4% and 99.9%, respectively, relative to the previously published L. viridis mitogenome. The phylogenetic reconstruction based on 17 Lacertinae mitogenomes using Anolis carolinensis as the outgroup supported L. bilineata and its sister species L. viridis as distinct lineages.

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The European green lizards of the Lacerta viridis complex consist of two closely related species, L. viridis and L. bilineata that split less than 7 million years ago in the presence of gene flow. Recently, a third lineage, referred to as the “Adriatic” was described within the L. viridis complex distributed from Slovenia to Greece. However, whether gene flow between the Adriatic lineage and L. viridis or L. bilineata has occurred and the evolutionary processes involved in their diversification are currently unknown. We hypothesized that divergence occurred in the presence of gene flow between multiple lineages and involved tissue-specific gene evolution. In this study we sequenced the whole genome of an individual of the Adriatic lineage and tested for the presence of gene flow amongst L. viridis, L. bilineata and Adriatic. Additionally, we sequenced transcriptomes from multiple tissues to understand tissue-specific effects. The species tree supports that the Adriatic lineage is a sister taxon to L. bilineata. We detected gene flow between the Adriatic lineage and L. viridis suggesting that the evolutionary history of the L. viridis complex is likely shaped by gene flow. Interestingly, we observed topological differences between the autosomal and Z-chromosome phylogenies with a few fast evolving genes on the Z-chromosome. Genes highly expressed in the ovaries and strongly co-expressed in the brain experienced accelerated evolution presumably contributing to establishing reproductive isolation in the Lacerta viridis complex.

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Background Lacerta viridis and L. bilineata are sister species of European green lizards (eastern and western clades respectively), which until recently were grouped together as the L. viridis complex. Genetic incompatibilities were observed between lacertid populations through crossing experiments, which led to the delineation of two separate species within the L. viridis complex. The population history of these sister species and processes driving divergence are unknown. We constructed high quality de novo genome assemblies for both L. viridis and L. bilineata through Illumina and PacBio sequencing, with annotation support provided from transcriptome sequencing of several tissues. To estimate gene flow between the two species and identify factors involved in reproductive isolation, we studied their evolutionary history, identified genomic rearrangements, detected signature of selection on non-coding RNA and protein-coding genes. Findings Here we show that the gene flow was primarily unidirectional from L. bilineata to L. viridis after their split at least 1.15 Mya. We detected positive selection of the non-coding repertoire; mutations in transcription factors; accumulation of divergence through inversions; selection on genes involved in neural development, reproduction and behavior, as well as in UV-response possibly driven by sexual selection, whose contribution to reproductive isolation between these lacertid species need to be further evaluated. Conclusion The combination of short and long sequence reads resulted in one of the most complete lizard genome assemblies. The characterization of a diverse array of genomic features provided valuable insights into the demographic history of divergence among European green lizards, as well as key species differences, some of which are candidates that could have played a role in speciation. In addition, our study generated valuable genomic resources that can be used to address conservation related issue in lacertids.

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Anlässlich einer Urlaubsreise vom 18.-27.06.2004 in die Bretagne (Nordfrankreich) konnten feldherpetologisch drei Reptilienarten nachgewiesen werden: Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis muralis brogniardi und Vipera berus.

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Lacerta bilineata and Podarcis muralis were observed at a beach in Cancale (Northwestern France). Both species seemed to be mutually exclusive. While the egg-laying period of Podarcis muralis had been on peaklevel, the period of Lacerta bilineata had not even begun. A high pressure of predators is assumed because of the high number of regenerated tails in Podarcis muralis. Résumé: Dans une baie en Cancale (dans le Nord de la Bretagne) il y ont observées Lacerta bilineata et Podarcis muralis. Les deux espèces semblent être mutuellement exclusives. Dans les Podarcis muralis la période de pondre les oeufs s’était sur le pic durant laquelle des Lacerta bilineata n’a pas encore commencée. Une forte proportion de queues régénerées dans Podarcis muralis indique une pression de prédation élevée.

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Contrary to other sources, the author found an explicit separation of Lacerta bilineata and Podarcis muralis at a beach near Cancale. The finding of a head of a freshly killed Lacerta bilineata is discussed.

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An overview of the cases of introduction (both accidental and intentional) of amphibians and reptiles in the Caucasus and Crimea is provided. The introduction cases are systemized in accordance with the goals and ways of introduction and with regards to the expected scale of the impact and its nature. No negative consequences of the introduction of amphibian and reptile species in the Crimea and Caucasus are currently observed on any of the known examples. No cases of species naturalization, which the “invasion” term can be applied to, have been revealed. The importance of allochthonous populations as experimental sites to study microevolutionary processes and ecological adaptations of the species in new environmental conditions is discussed.

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On a surface area of only 56 542 km2, making for 0, 5% of European territory, Croatia harbours a rich herpetofauna of 21 amphibian and 36 reptile species, which is 26, 9% and 34, 8% of European species richess, respectively. This relatively high biodiversity can be attributed to a high diversity of habitat types and the position of Croatia in the area of four major european biogeographical regions. Since most of the country was left outside ice-cover in the glacials, it served as one of the refuges for European herpetofauna. The specificity of Croatian herpetofauna is characterized by: - high degree of endemism: 11 regionally endemic species and 6 local endems, 9 species with restricted areals in Europe - isolation on islands has produced a number of spatially restricted forms of Podarcis sicula and P. melisellensis whose taxonomic status is still under review, but at least several of them can be considered as endemic subspecies - edges of species` distribution areals for 16 species - hybridisation zones for Pelophylax ridibundus and P.lessonae, Bombina bombina and B. variegata, Triturus carnifex and T. dobrogicus and contact zone for Lacerta bilineata and L. viridis - eight species listed in IUCN red list, categories NT to EN The existing literature on herpetofauna in Croatia is scarce and unsystematic. Published data is summarized and previously unpublished data from field workers is gathered to give an account of a current knowledge of herpetofauna distribution. Species distributions and diversity according to biogeographical regions, type of habitat and altitude are given.

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This is a review of fifty-one non-native species, subspecies, intergrades or hybrids of amphibians and reptiles recorded as living wild in the London Area. Of these fifty-one taxa, referred to here as ‘types’, around twenty-one are amphibians of which fourteen have bred successfully and thirty are reptiles of which just two have been proven to breed. Other types may have bred unrecorded. A rapid increase in the number of types of terrapin in the wild has been observed since trade restrictions on red-eared terrapin importation in 1997. Many new species, mostly North American, but including those from Africa and Australia, can now be found in the wild. The traditional split of Water Frogs into two species and a hybrid has now diversified to include many more types that may interbreed when mixed. The distribution and spread of Water Frogs over the last two hundred years in this part of southeast England is described for the first time. Brief descriptions and identification notes are provided and zoogeographic and historical aspects of colonization are considered. Part 1 refers to distribution and aspects of impacts from the species’ role in the food chain of the communities where they have colonized. The trade in herpetofauna and nature conservation and welfare issues are considered. Aspects of disease impacts and philosophical considerations are described in Part 2.

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Two field trips to Kamp-Bornhofen in the upper Central Rhine valley in June 2006 and August 2010 resulted in several observations and photos of the Western Green Lizard (Lacerta bilineata). Some specimen, including one juvenile lizard could be found at the public nature trail. Other species in the area were the common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) und the Grass Snake (Natrix natrix).

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The Authors outline the present situation and distribution maps of 118 animal species of European Community interest protected by the EU 92/43/EEC Directive in Friuli Venezia Giulia Region (North-eastern Italy). They belong to various phyla and classes (Mollusca [6 species], Annelida [1 species], Arthropoda [27 species], Vertebrata [84 species]), at various degrees of protection included in the lists of the so-called Habitat Directive (All. II, IV, V). In the present situation the main conservation problems concern various hygrophilous lowland-dwelling species, highly menaced from agriculture, pollution and habitat fragmentation. A lot of meadow-dwelling species, on the contrary, are menaced by forest expansion in various karstic and mountain environment. The great expansion of the mountain woods on the alpine mountain chain, on the other hand, has surely favoured various forest species, like a lot of big and medium Carnivores.

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The use of roads and the mortality by traffi c collision were assessed for three lizard species ( Lacerta bilineata, Podarcis sicula, Podarcis muralis) in a hilly area of central Italy. Roads were chosen to include two different habitats and two different traffi c levels, resulting in four categories. For both habitats, the density of lizards using roads was signifi cantly higher at lower traffi c levels; the density of road killing was signifi cantly higher on roads at low traffi c too. Among the three species, the mortality of Lacerta bilineata was higher on low traffi c roads crossing pasture with shrubs.

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Atlases of fauna with distribution maps and information about biology and ecology are useful tools for the management and conservation of the species. Knowledge about distribution of the reptiles in Sicily dates back to 2006. An update of data was carried out taking also into account the systematic innovations of the last twelve years. For creating the geographic distribution maps, the UTM WGS84 cartographic system was used. At present 24 species of reptiles live and reproduce in the Sicilian territory. On the main island there are 17 species, on the minor islands the number varies from a minimum of four to a maximum of eight species. Compared to the bibliographic data, for 16 species an increase in the number of cells occupied has been recorded, with a variation between 0.3 and 81.8%, five species have not undergone variation, and for two species a decrease was recorded. The current presence of Testudo hermanni on the minor Sicilian islands is dubious or unlikely. The higher number of species compared to the previous distribution data is due to the recent confirmation of the presence of Eryx jaculus in Sicilian territory, and the presence of a new Tarentola taxon of specific rank in Lampedusa island. The decrease of Podarcis filfolensis is due to its absence from the known site in Lampedusa, while the case of Zamenis situla is due to the exclusion of data collected in some areas where there are no recent, reliable observations.

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We examined the characteristics of microhabitats selected by Western green lizards, Lacerta bilineata. Model selection was carried out with the Information-theoretic approach that focuses on the estimation of effect size and measures of its precision. Our results show that the Western green lizard selects positively sites with good shrub cover, necessary as shelter, while it avoids areas with bare soil where there are no refuges. Additionally, lizards showed a posi-tive selection of rocks (located exclusively in artificial riverbanks) that represent a suitable habitat for thermoregulation and sheltering. The results of our work, and particularly the negative effects of bare soil and the positive effects of shrub cover, confirm the need to restore the net-work of hedgerows and other linear elements in cultivated landscapes in order to create suitable areas for L. bilineata.

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Wolbachia, a maternally transmitted Gram-negative endosymbiont of onchocercid nematodes and arthropods, has a role in the biology of their host; thus it has been exploited for the filariasis treatment in humans. To assess the presence and prevalence of this endosymbiont in reptiles and their ectoparasites, blood and tail tissue as well as ticks and mites collected from them were molecularly screened for Wolbachia DNA using two sets of primers targeting partial 16S rRNA and Wolbachia surface protein (wsp) genes. Positive samples were screened for the partial 12S rRNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) genes for filarioids. Of the different species of lizards (Podarcis siculus, Podarcis muralis and Lacerta bilineata) and snakes (Elaphe quatuorlineata and Boa constrictor constrictor) screened from three collection sites, only P. siculus scored positive for Wolbachia 16S rRNA. Among ectoparasites collected from reptiles (Ixodes ricinus ticks and Neotrombicula autumnalis, Ophionyssus sauracum and Ophionyssus natricis mites), I. ricinus (n = 4; 2.8%; 95% CI, 0.9–7) from P. siculus, N. autumnalis (n = 2 each; 2.8%; 95% CI, 0.9–6.5) from P. siculus and P. muralis and O. natricis (n = 1; 14.3%; 95% CI, 0.7–55.4) from Boa constrictor constrictor scored positive for Wolbachia DNA. None of the positive Wolbachia samples scored positive for filarioids. This represents the first report of Wolbachia in reptilian hosts and their ectoparasites, which follows a single identification in the intestinal cells of a filarioid associated with a gecko. This data could contribute to better understand the reptile filarioid-Wolbachia association and to unveil the evolutionary pattern of Wolbachia in its filarial host.

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THE LACERTA VIRIDIS-COMPLEX Compared with the beginning of this century there has been a considerable change in taxonomy of the, mostly, green large lizards ofthe genus La- certa. Even in the last decade a lot of new facts are published on the green lizards of Turkey. A classification at the beginning of the century is given. L. agilis, L. jayakari, L. princeps, L. lepi- da, L. pater, L. schreiberi, L. pamphylica, L. stri- gata, L. media, L. trilineata and L. viridis are considered here as one group. A short discription of the species (also of the juveniles), the subspe- cies and the ranges of the species arc enumerated in this article.

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Green lizards are widespread in Slovenia. Until now little is known about their taxonomic allocation. First mitochondrial (cytochrome b) and nuclear (ß-fibrinogen- intron7) data show that three different lineages of green lizards occur in Slovenia. In addition to two lineages of eastern green lizards (Lacerta viridis), the existence of the so called ‘Adriatic lineage’ is confirmed. In immediate vicinity (Italy and island of Cres, Croatia), the western green lizard (L. bilineata) occurs. This raises the question of whether there is gene flow between these two species. The nuclear marker provided evidence for gene flow. These results challenge the species status of L. bilineata and L. viridis.

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Based on broad, nearly rangewide sampling, we reanalysed the phylogeography of the Lacerta viridis complex using the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and the intron 7 of the nuclear b-fibrinogen gene. Using the mitochondrial marker, we identified in phylogenetic analyses 10 terminal clades clustering in four deeply divergent main lineages whose relationships are weakly resolved. These lineages correspond to Lacerta bilineata, L. viridis, the previously identified Adriatic or West Balkan lineage and a newly discovered fourth lineage from the Anatolian Black Sea coast and the south-eastern Balkan Peninsula. Except for the latter lineage, there is considerable phylogeographic structuring in each lineage, with higher diversity in the south of the distribution ranges. This pattern indicates the existence of two distinct microrefugia in the Italian Peninsula and Sicily and of up to seven microrefugia in the Balkan Peninsula, but of only one refugium along the Black Sea coast of Anatolia. We identified secondary contact zones of the main lineages and of terminal clades within these lineages. However, most of the formerly described putative contact zone of L. bilineata and L. viridis turned out to be a contact zone between the Adriatic lineage and L. viridis, but L. bilineata seems to be involved only marginally. Our nuclear marker could not unambiguously resolve whether there is gene flow in contact zones. Thus, further research is necessary to decide whether the four main lineages are conspecific or whether they represent distinct biological species. We restrict the name L. v. meridionalis to the newly identified genetic lineage from Turkey and south-eastern Europe, synonymize some previously recognized taxa and suggest a tentative nomenclature for the L. viridis complex.

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Reptiles, Amphibians and terrestrial Birds from the circum Sicilian Islands -- The study of the number of terrestrial bird species from the circum Sicilian Islands allowed to note a mean density (species/ln of area) of 4,45. This value increase with the surface in the Mediterranean islands (12,2 for the Island of Elba and 19,5 for Sicily, Sardinia and Corsica). The computation of the linear regression between In-area and In-species gives a slope around 0,26 but the corelation is poor r = 0.51). The subdivision of the island into two large groups (Archipelago of Eolie = 7 islands; and all the others, Egadi, Ustica. Pantelleria and Pelagia = 7 islands) gives a better correlation (r = 0,9 and 0,62). This probably depends on certain variables that are taken in consideration here. The altitude is not an important variable (r = 0,39) but the isolation degree and the distance from the continent are importants (r =-0,60 and r = -0,61). but the highest correlation is obtained between the number of species and the habitat’s diversity (r = 0,80). This is confirmed by the analysis of similarities between the islands. Many islands have not yet reached species saturation as can be seen from the actual exploration confronted to that of the authors. The study of the number of species of Amphibians and Reptiles does not give any of the correlations found for the terrestrial birds. Il can thus be retained that these taxa quickly reach saturation and that, given the low number of colonizing species, the relation between area and species is hardly relevant. These are probably populations that are not in equilibrium.

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A new taxonomic checklist is established for the Amphibians and non-avian Sauropsids (= “Reptiles”) of France. It takes into account the most recent publications. In addition to zoological scientific names, a French scientific name is attributed to each taxon.

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We present the Atlas of Amphibians and Reptiles of SCI Murgia Alta, financed by the Alta Murgia National Park Authority. Mediterranean steppe and crops on thin and rocky soils, at altitudes between about 200 m and 679 m (Monte Caccia) characterize the site, located in the central Apulia (SE Italy). For Atlas realization, Site territory has been divided in UTM 5x5 km grid; the grid thus obtained consists of 74 quadrants, 6 of them only partially (<50% of the surface) include in the Site. We analyze 2125 records, referring to the period 2010-2016, of which 1421 collected during the Atlas project referable to the 2015-16 period only. We found 21 species (6 Amphibians and 15 Reptiles), while two species reported in bibliography (Bombina pachypus and Emys orbicularis) were not detected. The most widespread species, found in more than 50% of the 5x5 km UTM squares, are Podarcis siculus, Hierophis viridiflavus, Lacerta bilineata, Pelophylax sp. and Bufotes balearicus, while the more localized Hyla intermedia, Hemidactylus turcicus, Zamenis situla, Triturus carnifex and Natrix tessellata.

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The collection of Amphibians and Reptiles of the Museum of Natural History of Ferrara has characteristics of historical representation, taxonomic and zoogeography that may be considered as examples of medium-sized types of collections more preva- lent in Italian museums. It consists of a historic part of the study and a donation from Guido Campadelli. The collection consists of 1739 specimens of amphibians (1734 of which held in 437 containers with ethanol and 5 taxidermized specimens) for a total of 78 amphibian species. There are 811 specimens of Reptiles (769 of which are stored in 526 containers with ethanol and 42 taxidermized specimens) representing a total of 108 species. The findings that form the collection of Amphibians come from 153 loca- lities of 15 states and 12 regions and 29 provinces of Italy. In the batrachological col- lection 62.1% of the total European species, and 94.3% of the total species in Italy, are represented. Zoogeographic regions most represented are the Palaearctic with 67% of the species of Amphibians in the collection and the Neotropical with 29%, fol- lowed by the Ethiopian (6%) and Nearctic (5%). Reptiles specimens come from 247 lo- calities of 15 states and 15 regions and 36 provinces of Italy. In the collection 46,2% of European species and 91,5% of the Italian ones are represented. The most represen- ted zoogeographic region are the Palaearctic with 89% of species in the collection, followed by the Ethiopian (14%), the Eastern (13%), Neotropical (11%) and the Nearctic (7%); australian and malagasy species do not exceed 3%. The herpetology collection was the subject of taxonomic and biogeographic analysis.

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Road mortalities of two lizard and four snake species were recorded in the Vendée region of western France over a period of four years. Road-kills were more frequent in the foraging snakes Hierophis (= Coluber) viridiflavus and Natrix natrix as well as the lizard Lacerta bilineata, and lower in the small lizard Podarcis muralis and the sedentary snakes Vipera aspis and Natrix maura. Road-kills were found throughout the active year, with differences in size class and monthly frequencies in H. viridiflavus, N. natrix and L. bilineata commencing in June. Pearson rank correlation coefficients revealed a significant positive association between monthly road-kill and monthly live counts of H. viridiflavus and N. natrix, suggesting regular road crossings in these species. Road traffic volume was related to the number of road deaths using regression analysis of the log-transformed data. This gave an allometric equation with an exponent of 0.75, which was not significantly different from 1, the exponent required if road-kills increase in direct proportion to increasing road traffic volume. The highest traffic volume route showed lower than expected mortalities, but fewer numbers of species living in the vicinity. Models of road-kill vulnerability in H. viridiflavus and N. natrix, derived from the integration of size frequencies of road-kill and live distributions, predict high vulnerability in small and large individuals. In lizards, particularly L. bilineata, road basking is probably the main factor determining mortality, in addition to species velocities, traffic volumes, road widths, abundance at the sides of roads, and behaviour and activity patterns.

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Observations of the green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) and wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) on roads in Western France indicated that basking close to the road edge was the predominant activity in L. bilineata but P. muralis mostly foraged. Spatial locations of road mortalities in both species reflected this with the median distances from the road edge greater in P. muralis. Temporal differences in road presence, based on mortality counts and those of live lizards, indicated significantly more lizards were present on roads during late summer and autumn, especially in P. muralis. A significant correlation was found between the monthly presence of live lizards and monthly road mortalities in P. muralis (r = 0.73) but not in L. bilineata (r = 0.64). Numbers of L. bilineata found on roads bisecting low-density urban areas and roads bordered by hedgerows were higher than expected in relation to the occurrence of these habitats at roadsides. In P. muralis higher than expected numbers were found alongside low-density urban areas and roads bisecting woodland. Generally both species were less commonly seen on roads alongside agricultural areas with no hedgerow border.

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Identifying population changes is a prerequisite for any conservation efforts, but to evaluate trends requires long-term data sets. In this paper, changes in population numbers in two species of European lizards, Lacerta bilineata and Podarcis muralis, are described. The results are based on counts of mortalities and live lizard presence on roads collected over a 14 year period, which indicated wide annual fluctuations in numbers in both species, with inter-specific annual trends strongly correlated. Snout to vent lengths (SVL) in L. bilineata were generally longer when annual numbers were higher but not in P. muralis. Regression analysis of the logarithmic transforms of annual lizard numbers as dependent variables and year as the independent variable indicated that despite population fluctuations, numbers of both species were stable or increased during the period of observation. Jackknife analysis identified unusually high numbers of L. bilineata in 2012 and P. muralis in 2010, but data from these years had minimal influence on the general trends with the peudo-regression coefficients generated from the Jackknife analysis in agreement with the true regressions. The results were therefore congruent, indicating annual fluctuations in both species were underpinned by long-term population stability.

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The influence of temperature on the physiological processes in reptiles is well known, for example growth, reproduction, muscular energy are all largely temperature dependent and therefore temperature is a key aspect of reptilian ecology. However, there may be constraints on the ability of reptiles to harness thermal energy, particularly during cold seasons in the temperate zones. Substrate selection is a key aspect in thermoregulation and can enhance heat uptake. For example, wood substrates are known to increase rates of heat gain in basking reptiles enabling earlier attainment of optimum body temperatures compared to other substrate types, which enables increased time available for other activities. In this paper we describe substrate use for basking in two species of lizard, Lacerta bilineata and Podarcis muralis in a hedgerow and suburban garden in western France compared against a null model of substrate availability. When different substrates were pooled based on their material similarities both species were recorded in greater frequency on wood based materials in comparison to their availability compared to non-wood substrates. However at a finer level, in comparison to substrate availability (fallen tree branches, tree stumps, open ground etc), P. muralis showed strong substrate selection for basking, whereas L. bilineata did not depart significantly from the null model. We speculated that intra-specific aggression in L. bilineata was a possible cause of this result due to dominant individuals limiting smaller or female lizards from accessing prime basking sites. Differences in communal basking between the two species supported this notion.

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The influence of temperature on the physiological processes in reptiles is well known, for example growth, repro duction and muscular energy are all temperature dependent. However, there may be constraints on the ability of a reptile to harness thermal energy, particularly during cold seasons in the temperate zones. Substrate selection is a key factor in enhancing thermoregulation since it can enhance rate of heat uptake. For example, wood substrates are known to increase rates of heat gain in basking reptiles enabling earlier attainment of optimum body tempera tures compared to other substrate types, which enables increased time available for other activities. In this paper we describe substrate use for basking in populations of Lacerta bilineata and Podarcis muralis in a hedgerow and a population of Podarcis muralis in a suburban garden in western France. The proportions of substrate used were compared against a null model of substrate availability. When different substrates were pooled based on material similarities both species were recorded in greater frequency on wood based materials in comparison to their avail ability compared to non-wood substrates. However at a finer level, in comparison to the null model of substrate availability (fallen tree branches, tree stumps, open ground etc), P. muralis showed strong substrate selection whereas L. bilineata did not depart significantly from the null model. We speculate that intra-specific aggression in L. bilineata was one possible cause of this result due to dominant individuals limiting access to prime basking sites in smaller or female lizards. Differences in communal basking between the two species supported this notion.

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The relationship between a reptile and its thermal environment is a key feature of habitat use, which may be impacted by, among others, the requirements for food, avoidance of competitors and predators. Juvenile lizards are subject to the same ecological pressures, but may additionally experience predation or exclusionfrom prime basking site by adults and hence their capacity to achieve preferred body temperatures. In this paper, we examined basking site selection in juvenile western green lizards, Lacerta bilineata and compared them to basking site availability. Secondly, measurements of morning substrate temperatures at different basking sites were compared to basking site selection over the same period. The results indicated that juveniles selected substrates with fast heating surfaces, for example fallen branches for basking, in greater frequency than their availability but in even greater than expected frequency on the cooler surfaces of clusters of bramble plant. This finding contrasted with basking site selection in adult L. bilineata in a previous study where wood surfaces was preferred over non-wood surfaces whilst avoiding basking on bramble. This illustrates the different ecological requirements between adults and juveniles.

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Aim Body size is instrumental in influencing animal physiology, morphology, ecology and evolution, as well as extinction risk. I examine several hypotheses regarding the influence of body size on lizard evolution and extinction risk, assessing whether body size influences, or is influenced by, species richness, herbivory, island dwelling and extinction risk. Location World-wide. Methods I used literature data and measurements of museum and live specimens to estimate lizard body size distributions. Results I obtained body size data for 99% of the world`s lizard species. The body size–frequency distribution is highly modal and right skewed and similar distributions characterize most lizard families and lizard assemblages across biogeographical realms. There is a strong negative correlation between mean body size within families and species richness. Herbivorous lizards are larger than omnivorous and carnivorous ones, and aquatic lizards are larger than non-aquatic species. Diurnal activity is associated with small body size. Insular lizards tend towards both extremes of the size spectrum. Extinction risk increases with body size of species for which risk has been assessed. Main conclusions Small size seems to promote fast diversification of disparate body plans. The absence of mammalian predators allows insular lizards to attain larger body sizes by means of release from predation and allows them to evolve into the top predator niche. Island living also promotes a high frequency of herbivory, which is also associated with large size. Aquatic and nocturnal lizards probably evolve large size because of thermal constraints. The association between large size and high extinction risk, however, probably reflects a bias in the species in which risk has been studied.

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Background: Borrelia burgdorferi (sensu lato) is a complex containing pathogenic bacteria of which some species, such as Borrelia lusitaniae, use birds, small mammals and reptiles as reservoirs. In Italy, the bacteria have been detected in reptilian and avian reservoirs in the northern and central regions. Results: Here, 211 reptiles from three orders [Squamata (Sauria with seven species in five families and Ophidia with 11 species in three families), Crocodylia (one family and two species), and Testudines (two families and two species)] were examined for ectoparasites and molecular detection of B. burgdorferi (s.l.) in three different sites of southern Italy, an area for which no information was previously available on the occurrence of borreliosis in animals and humans. Borrelia lusitaniae was molecularly detected in larvae and nymphs (11.6%) of Ixodes ricinus infesting lizards (i.e. Podarcis muralis, Podarcis siculus and Lacerta bilineata) and in 12.3% blood samples of P. siculus. Finally, B. lusitaniae and Borrelia garinii were detected in 5.1% (32/630) of questing I. ricinus. Conclusions: These results show the circulation of B. lusitaniae in southern Italy and suggest that P. siculus could play a role as a reservoir, representing a potential medical threat to humans living in or visiting these localities.

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Die in der Mark Brandenburg an einigen isolierten Stellen noch vorkommende Lacerta viridis ist durch einen breiten und ziemlich hohen Kopf, auffallend kurze Beine, kurze Zehen und einenj ebenfalls kurzen Schwanz sowie eine ziemlich dunkle Gesamtfärbung ausgezeichnet. Trotz dieser Merkmale, die nur als Durchschnittswerte zum Ausdruck kommen, ist es nicht empfehlenswert, sie als eine besondere Rasse abzutrennen, da die Unterschiede gegenüber den benachbarten Populationen, vor allem der topotypischen aus der Wiener Gegend, wenig deutlich sind. Von rheinländischen Stücken weicht die märkische Smaragdeidechse stärker ab; aber auch diese sind ebenfalls als Lacerta viridis viridis zu betrachten. Da die Lebensstätten der märkischen Smaragdeidechse während der Hautvereisungszeiten unbewohnbar waren, handelt es sich bei ihr um einen Einwanderer aus dem Postglazial, der nach dem Oder-Gebiet vermutlich aus dem Donau-Gebiet (und nicht aus Südrussland) vorgestoßen ist. Die kurzen Gliedmaßen und der kurze Schwanz der norddeutschen Tiere können im Sinne der „ALLEN’schen Regel“ gedeutet werden, da auch in anderen Teilen des viridis-Areals eine Verkürzung der hervortretenden Körperteile bei nördlichen Tieren gegenüber den südlichen auftritt. Bei Oderberg und Lieberose in der Mark Brandenburg meidet die Smaragdeidechse die Mittagsonne und zeigt eine Vorliebe für den Aufenthalt am Rande von Landstraßen. In Lieberose ist außerdem ihre Bindung an den Wald (Kiefernheide) deutlich; sie hindert hier Lacerta agilis längs der Wege in den Wald einzudringen. Verschiebungen des Wohnareals (oder Aussterben?) kommen vor. Alle beobachteten Tiere bleiben nicht den ganzen Sommer an je einen bestimmten Schlupfwinkel gebunden, sondern hatten mehrere Verstecke, die von Zeit zu zeit gewechselt wurden. Sie brauchen nicht im Zeitraum des Jagdreviers zu liegen, das vom Versteck auf Entfernungen von 150 m und wahrscheinlich noch mehr durchstreift wird, und zwar stets in der Richtung der Landstraße und niemals tiefer als 120 m in den Wald hinein. Während der Begattungszeit lebt auch die märkischen Smaragdeidechse paarweise, wobei das Weibchen vom Männchen – oder umgekehrt – aufgesucht wird. Eine Begattung wurde am 2. V. um 18 Uhr (Sommerzeit) beobachtet. Ein e Woche später was das Paar bereits aufgelöst, und die Echsen halten sich den ganzen Sommer einzeln auf. Die ersten Jungtiere wurden am 8.IX., die meisten am 3.X. beobachtet. Die letzten erwachsenen Tiere wurden vor dem Winterschlaf am 17.IX.43 (Lieberose) und 24.IX.40 (Oderberg) gesehen.

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Lepidosaurs are frequently described as having highly kinetic skulls, and different forms of cranial kinesis have been described as being characteristic of their radiation. The model of amphikinesis proposed by Frazzetta, J Morphol 1962; 111:287–319, which was long considered a synapomorphy of the large suborder Sauria, is now much debated given its uncertain distribution among the various lizard taxa and the lack of data about its morphological correlates. In this article, we analyze the anatomical correlates of different forms of cranial kinesis, with particular regard to the putative saurian amphikinesis, describing the possible diverse skull movements of several species of European gekkotans (Hemidactylus turcicus, Mediodactylus kotschyi, and Tarentola mauritanica) and lacertids (Lacerta agilis, L. bilineata, Podarcis muralis, P. siculus, and Teira dugesii). Using serial and whole-mount histology, we found clear differences between gekkotans and lacertids in the structure of several cranial joints underlining the existence of two degrees of intracranial mobility. The lacertid species possess the anatomical features for streptostyly (quadrate joints) and metakinesis (parietal-supraoccipital and parabasisphenoid-pterygoid joints) and lack the anatomical correlates for mesokinesis (mobility of frontal-parietal and palatine-pterygoid joints) and amphikinesis (coupled mesokinesis, metakinesis, and streptostyly). In contrast, geckos present all the anatomical correlates for amphikinesis as described by the traditional quadratic crank model. Finally, we present a comprehensive summary of the different forms of squamate cranial kinesis, advancing two alternative hypotheses about the evolutionary origin of amphikinesis.

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Cranial sutures are sites of bone growth and development but micromovements at these sites may distribute the load across the skull more evenly. Computational studies have incorporated sutures into finite element (FE) models to assess various hypotheses related to their function. However, less attention has been paid to the sensitivity of the FE results to the shape, size, and stiffness of the modeled sutures. Here, we assessed the sensitivity of the strain predictions to the aforementioned parameters in several models of fronto-parietal (FP) suture in Lacerta bilineata. For the purpose of this study, simplifications were made in relation to modeling the bone properties and the skull loading. Results highlighted that modeling the FP as either an interdigitated suture or a simplified butt suture, did not reduce the strain distribution in the FP region. Sensitivity tests showed that similar patterns of strain distribution can be obtained regardless of the size of the suture, or assigned stiffness, yet the exact magnitudes of strains are highly sensitive to these parameters. This study raises the question whether the morphogenesis of epidermic scales in the FP region in the Lacertidae is related to high strain fields in this region, because of micromovement in the FP suture.

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Introduced populations of Western Green Lizard (Lacerta bilineata) and Common Wall Lizard (Podarcis muralis) were discovered on Boscombe cliffs in 2002. Since then both species have been recorded as breeding successfully, but a more comprehensive investigation of their population was required. In this investigation, for the first time, a static survey path was followed over the cliff top adjacent to where they first recorded in an attempt to plot their current territory and compare their numbers against the native Viviparous Lizard (Zootoca vivipara). Fifteen surveys were undertaken between April and September 2007 and at their completion had recorded 214 non-native and 44 native Lacertids. The range covered by these species showed that the two introduced species dominated the central area of the site with the native species only found in large numbers on the periphery. When these recordings were compared to previous records held by the Herpetological Conservation Trust the number of introduced species showed a marked increase (P. muralis increased between 2002 and 2007 by 40 % and L. bilineata by 36 %; compared with Z. vivipara which dropped by 75 % over the same period). This increase was also shown when compared as a percentage against Z. vivipara sightings. A longer survey period is however required to prove any detrimental effects on the native lizard numbers. The vegetation at sites where L. bilineata was observed was surveyed and it was clear that vegetation structure rather than the species of vegetation was a larger factor on the lizard’ distribution. With this in mind it will be quite possible for both species to spread unimpeded along the cliffs. The spread of these introduced lizards may also affect a Sand Lizard (Lacerta agilis) colony farther west if this site, but that will require more on-going investigation to determine the competitive impact that may occur there.

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Introduced populations of Lacerta bilineata and Podarcis muralis were discovered on Boscombe cliffs in 2002. Since then both species have been breeding successfully. This investigation plotted their territory in 2007 and compared their population trends with that of the native Zootoca vivipara. Fifteen survey visits were undertaken between April and September 2007 during which time observations were made of 214 non-native and 44 native lizards. The two introduced species dominated the central area of the site with the native species found in substantial numbers only on the periphery. Comparison with previously collected survey data show that the relative abundance of non-native species has increased; between 2002 and 2007 P. muralis increased by 40% and L. bilineata by 36%; compared with Z. vivipara which declined by 75%. Sufficient habitat favourable to the introduced species means that there is the potential for unimpeded range expansion along the cliffs, which raises concern for a sand lizard Lacerta agilis population to the west of this site. Eradication of the non-native species may be impractical because they occur on a relatively inaccessible cliff face.

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During the period July 8th to August7th the authors observed several species of amphibians and reptiles in the Rhône-valley in Switzerland. Notes are given on their habitat and on problems concerning determination of some species; remarks are made on the status oft he amphibians and reptiles in Switzerland.

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It is predicted that climate change will drive extinctions of some reptiles and that the number of these extinctions will depend on whether reptiles are able to change their distribution. Whether the latitudinal distribution of reptiles may change in response to increases in temperature is unknown. We used data on reptile distributions collected during the 20th century to analyze whether changes in the distributions of reptiles in Spain are associated with increases in temperature. We controlled for biases in sampling effort and found a mean, statistically significant, northward shift of the northern extent of reptile distributions of about 15.2 km from 1940–1975 to 1991–2005. The southern extent of the distributions did not change significantly. Thus, our results suggest that the latitudinal distributions of reptiles may be changing in response to climate change.

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Measurements of 131 specimens of Lacerta viridis fejervaryi from Elba island were taken. There was no proof that relative tail length will decline in populations of higher altitudes (more that 600 m) or will change from east tO west.

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Planning conservation actions requires detailed information on species’ geographic distribution. Species distribution data are most needed in areas hosting unique or endangered biodiversity. Italy is one of the European countries with the highest levels of herpetological diversity and endemism and is home to several threatened species of amphibians and reptiles. Information on the distribution of species’ habitats can help identify sites where the species is most likely to thrive, as viable populations depend on it. Area of Habitat (AOH) maps reveal the distribution of the habitat available to the species within their geographic range. We produced high resolution, freely accessible global area of habitat maps for 60 species of reptiles and amphibians distributed in Italy, which represent 60% of all Italian amphibian and reptile species. We validated a total of 44 AOH maps through a presence-only based evaluation method, with 86% of these maps showing a performance better than expected by chance. AOH maps can be used as a reference for conservation planning, as well as to investigate macroecological patterns of Italian herpetofauna. Furthermore, AOH maps can help monitoring habitat loss, which is known to be a major threat to many reptile and amphibian species in Europe.

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The use of pictures from the internet as data source for more better distribution maps is demonstrated. Based on pictures within the database www.lacerta.de and using the only known field character “greenish throat colour in hatchlings” first records of Lacerta bilineata in Carintia (Austria) can be stated. And it is shown, that this character is obviously also useful to distinguish the L. bilineata of the “West Balkan clade” (W. Böhme et al. 2007) and L. viridis in the lowlands of Thessalia (Greece). These findings should motivate intensified field herping activities and in case of green lizards more pictures of hatchlings instead of large blue throated males.

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July 1973 five species of reptiles and one amphibian species were seen in a coastal area near Otranto (Puglia, Italy). Observations were made on the behaviour oft wo of them: Lacerta sicula campestris and Lacerta viridis fejervaryi.

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ventaire exhaustif des espèces indigènes et naturalisées, présentes e n France et au Benelux : 85 taxons, relevant de 72 espèces, sont cités, mais deux autre s taxons, dont le statut reste à définir, sont mentionnés au n os 31 (Rana esculenta) et a u n° 53 (Podarcis muralis) et huit autres au n` 56 (Podarcis muralis tiliguerta) de l`inven- taire. On signale les zones à prospecter par priorité et les problèmes taxonomiques à résoudre d`urgence . Les aires sont définies par rapport aux provinces ou aux départements : des cartes d`aire provisoires, en France, sont données pour 33 taxons. En ce qui concerne la liste des taxons relatifs à la France, les modifications suivante s sont à noter : 1°) taxons admis : Triturus alpestris apuanus, Acanthodactylus erythrurus cf. erythru- rus, Lacerta agilis garzoni, Podarcis hispanica hispanica, Podarcis muralis merremia , Vipera latastei latastei, Vipera seoanei ; 2.) deux intergrades de Salamandra salamandra sont retenus : 30) taxons refusés : Rana iberica, Coronella austriaca fitzingeri, Natrix tessellata tessellata ; 4.) tombent en synonymie les deux taxons suivants : Podarcis muralis occidentalis (= P. m. muralis) et P. m. calbia (= P. m. oyensis). En outre, liste des espèces introduites, liste des espèces citées par erreur et list e des taxons à rechercher . Quelques données inédites concernent le nord de l`Espagne .

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Morphological and behavioral abnormalities in F1 hybrids of Lacerta bilineata and Lacerta trilineata. A male L. trilineata was introduced to the enclosure of a female L. bilineata. Mating was observed and a clutch of eight eggs was produced. Three of these eggs hatched after 60 days of incubation at 26-30oC. The juveniles had characteristics of both parent species but displayed deformities at the front legs. Furthermore, they did not show any interest in prey items and subsequently died within 2 weeks. The remaining eggs contained dead, underdeveloped embryo’s with non-closed abdomens. These mechanisms may contribute to the reproductive isolation of both species in the region where their areas of distribution meet.

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The relation between body colors and food source in Western Emerald lizards (Lacerta bilineata) and several other Lacertidae. Captive bred lizards in general and especially Emerald lizards display aberrant pale blue/green body colors. These colors are less attractive than the bright yellow/green colors of lizard in the wild. Experiments were designed to solve this problem. The author subjected groups of captive bred juvenile Western Emerald lizards to different food and lighting conditions. From these experiments it became clear that artificial UV-light or unfiltered sunlight was not sufficient to induce normal body coloration. By changing the diet of the lizards from captive bred insects to wild-caught arthropods normal body coloration began to appear within one week. The feeding of artificial pigments to induce the yellow color did not have any effect on body coloration, while red pigments (carotenoids) induced red ventral coloration in male Peloponnese wall lizards (Podarcis peloponnesiaca) and red coloration of rostral and labial shields in Ocellated lizards (Timon lepidus). These results show that the attractive bright body colors typical for Emerald lizards (and several other lizard species) depend on the source of food.

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Captive bred lizards in general and especially Emerald Lizards dislays aberrant pale blue/green body colors. These colors are less attractive than the bright yellow/green colors of lizards in the wild. Exoeriments were designed to solve this problem. The author subjected groups of captive bred juvenile Western Emerald Lizards (Lacerta bilineata) to different food and lighting conditions. From these experiments it became clear that artificial UV-light or unfiltered sunlight was not sufficient to induce normal body coloration. By changing the diet of the lizards from captive bred insects to wild-caught arthropods normal body coloration began to appear within one week. The feeding of artrificial pigments to induce the yellow color did not have anyeffect on body coloration, while red pigments (casrotenoids) induced red ventral coloration in male Peloponnese Wall Lizards (Podarcis peloponnesiacus) and red coloration of rostral and labial shields in Ocellated Lizards (Timon lepidus). These results show that the attractive bright body colors typical for Emerald Lizards (and several other lizard species) depend on the source of food.

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The Western emerald lizard (Lacerta bilineata) in captivity. This article describes aspects that are of importance in successfully keeping and breeding the Western emerald lizard (Lacerta bilineata). The lizards are in the outdoor enclosures for most of the year but during hibernation and reproduction the animals are kept indoors. A group of adults consisting of up to five females and a single male can be housed together. Females produce up to four clutches per year each containing between 12 and 23 eggs. After an incubation of about 50 days the eggs hatch. The juveniles are housed in large groups in plastic cement buckets during spring and summer. Food consists mainly of home reared cockroaches but in summer time also wild-caught insects, spiders and snails are provided. The young lizards reach sexual maturity after approximately 10 months.

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Seit einigen Jahren versucht der Autor, eine Lösung für das Problem der im Allgemeinen matten Körperfarben von in Menschenobhut gezüchteten großen Lacertiden wie Lacerta bilineata, L. trilineata und Timon lepidus zu finden. Frühere Untersuchungen hatten ergeben, dass bei diesen im Terrarium gezüchteten Eidechsen vor allem das gelbe Pigment fehlte, was zu unnatürlich bläulichen Körperfarben führte. Nach dem Ausschluss von (UV-)Licht als bestimmender Faktor für natürliche Körperfarben bei diesen Eidechsen wurde die Nahrung (Insekten) als Quelle des gelben Pigments identifiziert. In Gefangenschaft gezüchtete Insekten besitzen dieses Pigment nicht, während in der Natur gefangene Insekten ausreichende Mengen des gelben Pigments enthalten, um natürliche Körperfarben bei in Menschenobhut gezüchteten Eidechsen hervorzurufen. Da es vor allem in gemäßigten Klimazonen fast unmöglich ist, für eine große Zahl von Eidechsen-Nachzuchten genügend Insekten aus der freien Wildbahn zu fangen, versuchte der Autor, eine synthetische Alternative zu finden, um natürliche Körperfarben bei den Nachzuchten zu erzeugen. Im vorliegenden Artikel wurde Sauriflavin (ein synthetisch modifiziertes Carotinoid) mehreren Arten von großen Lacertiden verabreicht, und es wurde festgestellt, dass es zu einer normalen Gelbfärbung und damit zu einer normalen Grünkörperpigmentierung führt. Sauriflavin ist wasserlöslich und scheint keine toxische Wirkung auf junge oder erwachsene Eidechsen zu haben. Interessanterweise konnten Weibchen, die mit Sauriflavin gefüttert wurden, die normale Körperpigmentierung über die Eier auf ihre Nachkommen übertragen.

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Integral Natural Reserve is located in the municipalities of Zerbolò and Torre d’Isola and extends along the Ticino river, about fifteen kilometers from the city of Pavia. The Reserve is home to a small surviving strip of plain Po Valley forest, a mixed broad-leaved forest, characterized by the total suspension of management activities from many decades. Being an integral reserve, it is not intended for visits by the public, but for the conservation of forest vegetation and fauna. The only activities are those related to dedicated scientific research. This study presents the results of a monitoring survey of amphibians and reptiles conducted in the period 2020-2021 using Visual Encounter Surveys (VES) and artificial shelters.

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Ultraviolet (UV) vision and UV colour patches have been reported in a wide range of taxa and are increasingly appreciated as an integral part of vertebrate visual perception and communication systems. Previous studies with Lacertidae, a lizard family with diverse and complex coloration, have revealed the existence of UV-reflecting patches that may function as social signals. However, confirmation of the signalling role of UV coloration requires demonstrating that the lizards are capable of vision in the UV waveband. Here we use a multidisciplinary approach to characterize the visual sensitivity of a diverse sample of lacertid species. Spectral transmission measurements of the ocular media show that wavelengths down to 300 nm are transmitted in all the species sampled. Four retinal oil droplet types can be identified in the lacertid retina. Two types are pigmented and two are colourless. Fluorescence microscopy reveals that a type of colourless droplet is UV-transmitting and may thus be associated with UV-sensitive cones. DNA sequencing shows that lacertids have a functional SWS1 opsin, very similar at 13 critical sites to that in the presumed ancestral vertebrate (which was UV-sensitive) and other UV-sensitive lizards. Finally, males of Podarcis muralis are capable of discriminating between two views of the same stimulus that differ only in the presence/absence of UV radiance. Taken together, these results provide convergent evidence of UV vision in lacertids, very likely by means of an independent photopigment. Moreover, the presence of four oil droplet types suggests that lacertids have a four-cone colour vision system.

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Many animals display complex colour patterns that comprise several adjacent, often contrasting colour patches. Combining patches of complementary colours increases the overall conspicuousness of the complex pattern, enhancing signal detection. Therefore, selection for conspicuousness may act not only on the design of single colour patches, but also on their combination. Contrasting long- and short-wavelength colour patches are located on the ventral and lateral surfaces of many lacertid lizards. As the combination of long- and short-wavelength-based colours generates local chromatic contrast, we hypothesized that selection may favour the co-occurrence of lateral and ventral contrasting patches, resulting in complex colour patterns that maximize the overall conspicuousness of the signal. To test this hypothesis we performed a comparative phylogenetic study using a categorical colour classification based on spectral data and descriptive information on lacertid coloration collected from the literature. Our results demonstrate that conspicuous ventral (long wavelength-based) and lateral (short wavelength-based) colour patches co-occur throughout the lacertid phylogeny more often than expected by chance, especially in the subfamily Lacertini. These results suggest that selection promotes the evolution of the complex pattern rather than the acquisition of a single conspicuous colour patch, possibly due to the increased conspicuousness caused by the combination of colours with contrasting spectral properties.

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The western green lizard populations (Lacerta bilineata Daudin, 1802 ; Squamata: Lacertidae) are locally threatened by habitat loss. What ecological management measures promote the presence of this reptile linked to semi-open environments? The species is recorded at the Pinail where grazing, mowing, no-intervention and fire are implemented to maintain biological mosaic with associated species. The mean number of observations or occurrence probability of L. bilineata was compared among four mesophilic moorland with simultaneous inspections of basking plates during the same season (N = 24/site. Sites are: annually grazed, 12-year old burnt moorland, 10-year old burnt moorland, burnt moorland five years). There is 15 times more probability of green lizard occurrence in the pasture than on the moorland sites (p < 0.01).

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The purpose of this study is to describe, for the LIPU Castel di Guido Oasis, within the Castel di Guido Farm, on the Roman coast, the different spatial distribution of the different species of reptiles that coexist in the area. The work also defines correlations between the presence of animals and the various environmental and vegetation types present. In the study area, Testudo hermanni is a species that has the feeding areas, as well as the deposition areas, in the prairies adjacent the plant formation of the Mediterranean maquis(within 5 meters). Hemidactylus turcicus and Tarentola mauritanica seem to have a localization exclusively in the context of anthropic structures. Chalcides chalcides and Podarcis siculus appear to be confined to prairie areas, while Podarcis muralis is associated with the presence of trees of high-trunk plant associations. For Lacerta bilineata, a correspondence is outlined for the areas with arboreal shrubby vegetation, especially close to more humid habitats. Among the snakes Hierophis viridiflavus appears to be an ubiquitous species, with the frequentation of different habitats in the same percentage; more localized appear Vipera aspis and Elaphe quatuorlineata, the first more linked to wooded areas with the presence of bushy and shrubby vegetal coverings, the second is often associated with the simultaneous presence of forests and water collections. In general it is confirmed, as regards the snake community, the importance of ecotonal and transitional zones. The work also highlights how the study area is important for the conservation of reptile populations in the Roman area.

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Habitat changes under the influence of natural or anthropogenic processes can significantly affect the survival of organisms. In general, natural changes are mostly stochastic in nature with less impact on the affected area, while human interventions are much more frequent and generally irreversible alternation of habitats. The Western green lizard (Lacerta bilineata) is a medium-sized lizard that is less tolerant to environmental changes. Studying habitat use is essential for the future conservation of this species. Our research was conducted in the northern part of Italy in Parco Belgiardino, which is part of the southern Adda Park. The study area was selected because of its diversity of habitats and the strong population of L. bilineata. Habitats were codified as follows: isolated trees, anthropic area, forest, river coast, ecotone, shrubs, meadows, meadows with bushes. Observations were made using the Visual Encounter Survey method. The position of 146 individuals were recorded in total. Geographic analyses were performed using GIS. Data were analysed by logistic regression composition analysis. Logistic regression showed significant differences in selection among available habitats. The compositional analysis indicates a significant difference in habitat utilisation and a non-random habitat selection. Both statistical methods confirmed that ecotone is the preferred habitat of L. bilineata, probably because it includes various microhabitats, most importantly sunny regions for thermoregulation, and a greater variety of food sources.