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We report the first observations regarding the presence of the leaf-toed gecko, Euleptes europaea, in Sicily. During field activities for environmental impact assessment several leaf-toed gecko individuals were found in a restricted coastal area in the north-west of the island, near the city of Palermo. Further surveys were then carried out to better assess the presence of the species. A total of 21 E. europaea individuals were observed in a small area of approximately 4.4 hectares, consisting of mixed eucalyptus and pine reforestation. Out of the 21 individuals, there were 14 males, 5 females, and 2 whose sex could not be determined. Additionally, at least two pregnant females were observed. Leaf-toed geckos were found exclusively under eucalyptus bark, syntopic with two other Gekkota species (Tarentola mauritanica and Hemidactylus turcicus). The presence of such a breeding population of E. europaea is probably limited to a small area. However, our results do not allow us to clearly assess either its origin or its actual distribution and demography, therefore new field investigations are necessary.

Four genes— DAND5 , PKD1L1 , MMP21 , and CIROP —form a genetic module that has specifically evolved in vertebrate species that harbor motile cilia in their left-right organizer (LRO). We find here that CIROZ (previously known as C1orf127) is also specifically expressed in the LRO of mice, frogs, and fish, where it encodes a protein with a signal peptide followed by 3 zona pellucida N domains, consistent with extracellular localization. We report 16 individuals from 10 families with bi-allelic CIROZ inactivation variants, which cause heterotaxy with congenital heart defects. While the knockout of Ciroz in mice also leads to situs anomalies, we unexpectedly find that its targeted inactivation in zebrafish and Xenopus does not lead to observable LR anomalies. Moreover, CIROZ is absent or obsolete in select animals with motile cilia at their LRO, including Carnivora, Atherinomorpha fish, or jawless vertebrates. In summary, this evo-devo study identifies CIROZ as an essential gene for breaking bilateral embryonic symmetry in humans and mice, whereas we witness its contemporary pseudogenization in discrete vertebrate species. [Display omitted] During evolution, genes can become obsolete and disappear. Here, we characterize CIROZ , an ancestral gene repeatedly lost in some species of fish, birds, reptiles, and mammals. Despite that, we find that its inactivation in humans causes heterotaxy, indicating that CIROZ is still essential for left-right patterning of the human embryo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iguanas exhibit diverse colors and behaviors reflecting evolutionarily adaptation to various habitats; in particular, the Galápagos iguanas represent unique color morphologies with distinct ecological niches. While external coloration in iguanas has ecological implications, comprehensive studies on the histological and ultrastructural aspects of their skin can provide insight into their adaptation to extreme environments, such as high UV exposure. Starting from these considerations the present study investigates the histological, ultrastructural and immunohistochemical features to comprehensively characterize the skin in adults of three species of Galápagos iguanas (A. cristatus, C. subcristatus and C. marthae). Morphological analysis revealed significant differences among the species, with the black-colored skin of A. cristatus showing a melanin-rich but vessel-poor dermis, while C. subcristatus and C. marthae displayed varying distributions of melanosomes and melanocytes. Notably, the absence of iridophores was consistent across all samples due to the absence of birefringent material under the optical microscope. Morphometric evaluations highlighted interspecific differences in the stratum corneum thickness, particularly between black- and non-black-colored (irrespectively if yellowish or pink) skin. The ultrastructural investigation confirmed the absence of iridophores in all analyzed samples. The cytokeratin expression assessed by immunohistochemistry showed stratified epithelium in the epidermis of C. marthae non-black-colored (pink) skin. The presence of a thickened stratum corneum and the stratification of the epidermis in non-pigmented skin could help the pink iguana to cope with the extreme conditions of the Wolf volcano, especially in relation to UV exposure. These skin characteristics may reduce the penetration power of UV rays into the superficial loose dermis, thereby attenuating potential UV-related damage such as DNA breaks and ROS generation. These findings offer insights into the adaptive strategies of these iguanas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local trade remains a data poor component of wildlife crime that must be better understood for more effective combat against the illegal wildlife trade. We assessed the distribution of wildlife markets, diversity of species traded and the extent of the trade chain through spatial analysis of wildlife sale sites and semi-structured interviews with 75 vendors in the 10 largest traditional medicine markets of Benin. GPS coordinates of wildlife markets were used to map their geographic distribution and assess their spatial patterns. We used a generalized linear model to determine the drivers underlying the spatial patterns of wildlife markets. A circular layout was designed to delineate the geographic extent of wildlife trade in terms of supplying sources. We found that wildlife was traded at 121 sale sites in Benin, highly dominated by traditional medicine markets (106 sites). The spatial analysis of markets exhibited an aggregative distribution pattern, and the type of market, the number of stalls in the markets and the municipality status influence significantly the spatial temporality of market distribution. Wildlife trade for traditional medicine affected 268, 96 and 61 bird, mammal and reptile species, respectively, and included species of both high national and global conservation concern. We also found that the national wildlife trade in Benin was supplied from 80% (12/15) West African Economic and Monetary countries, and all the Economic Community of West African States (except Guinea-Bissau) in violation of national laws, CITES, and regional commitments to combat wildlife trafficking (e.g., the West African Strategy for Combatting Wildlife Crime). Our study in Benin is a big step to revealing trade throughout in West Africa. It provides much needed information on wildlife trade structure and driving forces that could help to inform decision-making for better trade regulation and for effective wildlife law enforcement in West Africa. Other studies should do the same to help paint a more complete picture of wildlife trade in West Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal adaptation to environmental challenges is a complex process involving intricate interactions between the host genotype and gut microbiome composition. The gut microbiome, highly responsive to external environmental factors, plays a crucial role in host adaptability and may facilitate local adaptation within species. Concurrently, the genetic background of host populations influences gut microbiome composition, highlighting the bidirectional relationship between host and microbiome. Despite this, our understanding of gut microbiome plasticity and its role in host adaptability remains limited, particularly in reptiles. To clarify this issue, we conducted a reciprocal translocation experiment with gravid females of the Qinghai toad-headed lizards (Phrynocephalus vlangalii) between high-altitude (2 600 m a.s.l.) and superhigh-altitude (3 600 m a.s.l.) environments on Dangjin Mountain of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, China. One year later, we assessed the phenotypes and gut microbiomes of their offspring. Results revealed significant plasticity in gut microbiome diversity and structure in response to contrasting elevations. Highaltitude conditions increased diversity, and maternal effects appeared to enable high-altitude lizards to maintain elevated diversity when exposed to superhigh-altitude environments. Additionally, superhigh-altitude lizards displayed distinct gut microbiome structures with notable host specificity, potentially linked to their lower growth rates. Overall, these findings underscore the importance of the gut microbiome in facilitating reptilian adaptation to rapid environmental changes across altitudinal gradients. Furthermore, this study provides critical insights into microbial mechanisms underpinning local adaptation and adaptative plasticity, offering a foundation for future research on host-microbiome interactions in evolutionary and ecological contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Many reptile species lack obvious physical differences between males and females, thus making sex identification a challenging process. This literature review comprehensively includes all of the current methodologies for sex determination in reptiles, which are updated to today. By thoroughly understanding these updated techniques and the unique reproductive anatomy of reptiles, we can improve breeding programs, minimize aggressive behaviours among individuals, and significantly contribute to the conservation of endangered reptile species. A wide range of techniques, such as probing, manual eversion, imaging methods including ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) scans, endoscopy, and genetic testing, are discussed in this review. Reptile biodiversity is rapidly declining, with over 11,733 recognized species across 1226 genera being documented, many of which are endangered. Captive breeding programs play a crucial role in conservation; however, effective management requires accurate sex determination, especially due to the fact that many reptile species exhibit minimal or no sexual dimorphism. When present, sexual dimorphism manifests as differences such as size, coloration, and morphological features influenced by evolutionary pressures and hormones. Various sex determination techniques are employed due to the lack of external sexual characteristics in many species. These methods include probing, hydrostatic eversion, popping, ultrasound, CT, radiography, contrast radiography, endoscopy, and genotypic sex determination. Accurate sex determination is crucial for the success of captive breeding programs and the conservation of reptile species. Advanced imaging and molecular methods offer promising non-invasive alternatives but may not be universally accessible or effective. An understanding of the unique reproductive anatomy and the use of appropriate sexing techniques are fundamental to establishing breeding groups, preventing aggressive behaviours among groups, and ensuring the long-term survival of endangered reptile populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver Enriched Antimicrobial Peptide 2 (LEAP2) is a fascinating peptide that has gained significant attention since its discovery in 2003. Initially identified as an antimicrobial peptide, LEAP2 has more recently been found to play a key role in the regulation of energy metabolism. One of the most notable functions of LEAP2 is its interaction with the ghrelin hormone, which is known for stimulating hunger. LEAP2 acts as an inhibitor of ghrelin, thereby reducing food intake and influencing energy balance. The physiological roles of LEAP2 extend beyond appetite suppression. Studies have shown that LEAP2 has an impact on insulin secretion, suggesting its potential involvement in glucose metabolism and possibly insulin sensitivity, which is crucial in managing conditions like type 2 diabetes. Moreover, LEAP2 levels appear to fluctuate based on factors such as gender, developmental stage, and even interventions like bariatric surgery, which is known for its role in managing obesity and diabetes. Given these findings, LEAP2 shows potential as a therapeutic target, particularly for addressing obesity and metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. Its ability to influence food intake and energy balance makes it a promising candidate for further research into therapies aimed at weight regulation and glycemic control. In the future, LEAP2 could become an important agent in the development of treatments aimed at curbing obesity and its associated metabolic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Balsas Basin (BB) is a biogeographic province in south-central Mexico that straddles the Mexican Transition Zone and the Neotropical region. We provide a list of the amphibian and reptile species of the BB based on a detailed review and update of recent species lists of its constituent states. The BB is home to 51 native amphibian and 155 native reptile species, which represent 14.7% of the herpetofauna of Mexico. No amphibian and six reptile species are endemic to the BB. Six species of amphibians and seven of reptiles are categorized as being of conservation concern status (vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered) on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Red List. The main threat these species face is habitat loss due to urbanization, agriculture, and pollution. The herpetofauna of the BB shows significant overlap with neighboring provinces. The composition of amphibian species in the BB is closest to that of the Pacific Lowlands, whereas the composition of reptile species is closest to the Sierra Madre del Sur and the Transvolcanic Belt. These findings suggest that while the BB supports significant amphibian and reptile diversity, its conservation importance may be limited due to the low levels of endemism and the relatively small proportion of species at risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nesfatin-1 is a crucial regulator of energy homeostasis in mammals and fishes, however, its metabolic role remains completely unexplored in amphibians, reptiles, and birds. Therefore, present study elucidates role of nesfatin-1 in glucose homeostasis in wall lizard wherein fasting stimulated hepatic nucb2/nesfatin-1, glycogen phosphorylase (glyp), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (pepck), and fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase (fbp), while feeding upregulated pancreatic nucb2/nesfatin-1 and insulin, suggesting towards tissue-specific dual role of nesfatin-1 in glucoregulation. The glycogenolytic/gluconeogenic role of nesfatin-1 was further confirmed by an increase in media glucose levels along with heightened hepatic pepck and fbp expression and concomitant decline in liver glycogen content in nesfatin-1-treated liver of wall lizard. Moreover, treatment with nesfatin-1 stimulated insulin expression in pancreas while insulin downregulated pancreatic nucb2/nesfatin-1. Further, prolonged fasting induced elevated nucb2/nesfatin-1, and lipolytic markers, adipose triglyceride lipase (atgl) and monoglyceride lipase (mgl) in adipose tissue implicate nesfatin-1 in lipolysis which is substantiated by nesfatin-1-mediated direct upregulation of atgl and mgl. Our study provides the first comprehensive overview of tissue-dependent role of nesfatin-1 in regulating energy homeostasis in a reptile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Portable x-ray fluorescent (pXRF) technology provides significant opportunities for rapid, non-destructive data collection in a range of fields of study. However, there are sources of variation and sample assumptions that may influence the data obtained, particularly in animal samples. We used representative species for four taxa (fish, mammals, birds, reptiles) to test the precision of replicate scans, and the impact of sample thickness, sample state, scan location and scan time on data obtained from a pXRF. We detected some significant differences in concentration data due to sample state, scanning time and scanning location for all taxa. Infinite thickness assumptions were met for fish, reptile and mammal representatives at all body locations. Infinite thickness was not met for feathers. Scan time results found in most cases the 40, 60 and 80 second beam scan times were equivalent but significantly different to 20 second beam scan times. Concentration data across replicate scans were highly correlated. The opportunities for the use of pXRF in biological studies are wide-ranging. These findings highlight the considerations required when scanning biological samples to ensure the required data are suitably collected and standardised while reducing radiation exposure to live animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malignant dysgerminomas are infrequently reported ovarian neoplasms in animals, especially in exotic pets (non-traditional companion animals [NTCAs]). In the few published case reports on reptilian species, examples are primarily postmortem without antemortem (clinical) assessment. Patient presentation: An adult, 13-year-old, spayed female inland bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) presented with lethargy, a right-sided head tilt, unilateral exophthalmos and ventrotemporal strabismus on the right eye. On examination, a palpable mass (approximately 3.5 cm in diameter) was detected within the mid coelomic cavity. Computed tomography revealed a retrobulbar swelling and lytic bone lesions affecting the right frontal bone and several vertebrae (T11, T13, and T14). Multiple nodules of soft tissue opacity were also detected within the lungs, liver, and coelomic fat bodies. Haematology revealed leukocytosis with heterophilia and toxic granulation of heterophils. On the basis of these results, differential diagnoses included disseminated abscesses, granulomas (e.g., due to mycobacteriosis) and neoplasms. The lizard was subsequently euthanized due to end-stage disease and a poor prognosis. Postmortem gross examination and histopathology revealed a primary ovarian dysgerminoma with evidence of widespread metastasis as well as localized tissue destruction affecting the right retrobulbar space and frontal bone, the spinal column, the lungs, the liver, and both coelomic fat bodies. Conclusions: This report describes a case of malignant dysgerminoma with widespread intraosseous and visceral metastases in a captive inland bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive species are a major driver in the global decline of biodiversity. Invasive herpetofauna cause ecological harm through different mechanisms that vary in scope and severity, and Florida boasts more established nonnative herpetofauna species than any other region in the world. There, black spiny-tailed iguanas (Ctenosaura similis) are one of several large invasive reptiles known to occupy the burrows of the imperiled, native gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) and may even exclude tortoises from their burrows. To test the hypothesis that iguanas exclude tortoises from their burrows and evaluate effectiveness of iguana management, we conducted a field study on Gasparilla Island, Florida, USA. We used a burrow scope to estimate occupancy of each species within tortoise burrows at sites with and without sustained iguana removal efforts and modelled co-occurrence patterns between the two species. We used two-species occupancy analyses to test three predictions relating to gopher tortoise burrow use; 1) that tortoise occupancy within burrows would be lower given the presence of iguanas, 2) that iguana occupancy would be positively associated and tortoise occupancy would be negatively associated with the presence of iguana sidetunnels within a tortoise burrow, and 3) that iguana occupancy would be lower and tortoise occupancy would be higher at sites with ongoing iguana removal. Our results support the hypothesis that gopher tortoises are less likely to utilize burrows that are or have been utilized by black spiny-tailed iguanas. We estimated the probability of tortoise occupancy conditional on iguana presence to be 63% lower than tortoise occupancy conditional on iguana absence. Our results also show that sustained iguana removal is likely effective at reducing iguana occupancy of tortoise burrows, as the probability of iguana occupancy was 72% lower where iguanas are actively managed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The theoretical trade-off between immune and endocrine investment in mating animals has received mixed empirical support, particularly in reptiles. We investigated the relationship between male sexual characteristics, diet, and immune response to stress in an island population of tuatara (Sphenodon punctatus) across two mating seasons. Tuatara are promiscuous, with a highly skewed mating system where males face significant competition for access to mates and postcopulatory competition for fertilization success. We found that tuatara sperm viability and swim speed were negatively associated with male body condition and the ratio of heterophils to lymphocytes. Additionally, sperm swim speed was negatively associated with spine area, mite load, and the total number of circulating white blood cells, but was positively associated with tick number. This is likely a function of social dynamics in this system where larger male size predicts greater spatial overlap with potential rivals and increased tick load. Because the production of sexual characteristics may be costly, we also investigated the effect of diet on sperm quality. We did not identify an association between diet and sperm viability. However, sperm swim speed was negatively associated with carbon-13 and positively associated with nitrogen-15. We suspect that these results reflect the influence of seabird-based nutrients in this island ecosystem, particularly polyunsaturated fatty acid, and antioxidant damage on tuatara sperm. In total, these results provide evidence of a trade-off between pre- and post-copulatory sexual characteristics and the immune and endocrine systems in male tuatara. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitic nematodes of the oxyurid family Pharyngodonidae are commonly found across reptile orders, with species of the genus Spauligodon Skrjabin, Schikhobalova & Lagodovskaja, 1960, being among the most common ones. However, scant information exists regarding the prevalence of Spauligodon nematodes in Italian reptile populations. Although two Spauligodon species have been reported from southern Italy, the presence of these worms in the rest of the country remains unknown. In this research, we describe Spauligodon orobicus sp. nov. from an Italian common wall lizard Podarcis muralis (Laurenti, 1768) of northern Italy. The new species is distinct from other known species both at the morphological and molecular level. The study increases the knowledge on the biodiversity of Spauligodon nematodes and in general on the biodiversity of Italy, and adds northern Italy to the geographical range of this nematode genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical signaling through pheromones is an ancient and widespread mode of communication. Turtles and tortoises (chelonians) secrete pheromones via mental (chin) glands and have superior olfactory capacities rendering them a promising group to study the evolution and function of chemical communication in vertebrates. Here, we use state-of-the art proteomics and lipidomics techniques to identify and explore the possible functions of proteins and lipids secreted by mental glands in turtles. We examined four turtle species all from the family Geoemydidae, to understand among-species as well as sexual variation in the composition of mental gland secretions. Differential expression of a relatively small number (ca. 65) of proteins explained a large portion of the proteome variation across species, highlighting the existence of specific signals evolving even in closely related species. Lipidomic analysis revealed high inter-individual variation, but species differences could be attributed to five different lipid classes. The lipids found in mental glands could have a dietary origin or be related to individual condition, but may nonetheless be used in communication. We also examined sex-specific differences in the proteome of a single species (Mauremys leprosa) and found that males expressed a much larger array of proteins than females. Our findings establish a group of candidate proteins potentially involved in chemical signaling in freshwater geoemydid turtles. Alternatively, differently expressed proteins in mental glands could have an indirect link to chemical communication, being involved in pheromone transport and/or antioxidant protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tropical dry areas are often characterised by a lack of reptile abundance data. For example, in Burkina Faso, the population and ecological distribution of the gecko are poorly understood. Contributing to fill this gap, this study assessed the diversity, density and ecological distribution of geckos in the metropolitan area of Ouagadougou. The study was conducted between 2020 and 2022 using the direct count of individuals in 72 quadrats (each 25 × 25 m2) evenly distributed throughout the entire study area, from a random start. Two distinct species, Hemidactylus angulatus and Ptyodactylus sp. have been encountered. H. angulatus density was estimated as 0.000352 individuals/m2 (95% CI: ±0.000336) with a population estimate of 987,360 individuals (95% CI: ±942,480) in 2020; 0.000256 individuals/m2 (95% CI: ±0.000432) with a population estimate of 718,080 individuals (95% CI: ±1,211,760) in 2021; and 0.000368 individuals/m2 (95% CI: ±0.00048) with a population estimate of 1,032,240 individuals (95% CI: ±1,346,400) in 2022. Ptyodactylus sp. density was estimated as 0.010016 individuals/m2 (95% CI: ±0.004608) with a population estimate of 28,094,880 individuals (95% CI: ±12,925,440) in 2020; 0.012352 individuals/m2 (95% CI: ±0.005696) with a population estimate of 34,647,360 individuals (95% CI: ±15,977,280) in 2021; and 0.0144 individuals/m2 (95% CI: ±0.007136) with a population estimate of 40,392,000 individuals (95% CI: ±20,016,480) in 2022. The spatial distributions of both species were aggregative (dispersion index I = 3.81 for H. angulatus and I = 24.82 for Ptyodactylus sp.). Our study revealed that microhabitat is the resource axis typically partitioned by Ouagadougou geckos. The geckos of Ouagadougou follow the same pattern of available resource partitioning as African reptile communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discovery of the South East Africa Montane Archipelago has unveiled a biologically significant ecoregion with a high level of endemism, showcasing at least 127 endemic plants and 45 endemic vertebrates, including unique genera of both plants and reptiles. This remarkable find highlights Africa's ongoing contributions to global ecological knowledge, despite often being underrepresented in the international research sphere due to biases and marginalisation. To address these issues and enhance the visibility and impact of African ecological research, this Editorial outlines several key strategies. First, it emphasises the importance of making hypothesis‐driven research in ecological studies, following Popper's philosophy of science. Second, it advocates for generalising research findings to broader contexts rather than focusing narrowly on local specifics. Additionally, it underscores the need use clear, generalised terminology and producing detailed, context‐rich maps, so that the authors can enhance the comprehensibility and appeal of their research. Finally, the Editorial highlights the growing influence of African ecology, as evidenced by that the difference in impact factor between AJE and major international general ecology journals has decreased greatly. The Editorial also suggests that by adopting the strategies highlighted herein, African ecologists can further elevate their global presence and contribute more substantially to the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of environmental DNA (eDNA) methods to simultaneously study vertebrate diversity holds promise to accelerate conservation efforts, especially in freshwater systems which are among the most imperiled in the world. Here, using eDNA sampling, we identify patterns of vertebrate biodiversity across different habitats of the Kankakee River watershed, one of the most diverse lotic systems in Illinois, USA. Our eDNA metabarcoding analyses identified 147 different taxa, including 77 fishes, 38 birds, 24 mammals, five amphibians and three reptiles at 11 locations in the watershed, including tributaries and mainstem stretches upstream and within the Kankakee River State Park protected area. When compared to seining, eDNA sampling consistently detected more fish species, including non-native and imperiled species. We also found that vertebrate communities among the different habitats significantly varied in taxonomic composition, showing an upstream-downstream shift along the mainstem river as well as tributary-specific assemblages. Our study demonstrates the ability of single-marker eDNA metabarcoding to simultaneously document aquatic and terrestrial communities across large temperate lotic ecosystems and to monitor diversity patterns across protected areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motivation: Population density is a fundamental parameter in ecology and conservation, and taxonomic and geographic patterns of population density have been an important focus of macroecological research. However, population density data are time‐consuming and costly to collect, so their availability is limited. Leveraging decades of research, TetraDENSITY 1.0 was developed as a global repository containing over 18,000 population density estimates for > 2100 terrestrial vertebrate species, aiding researchers in investigating patterns of population density, its intrinsic and extrinsic drivers, and for developing predictive models. Here we present a substantially expanded version of the database, which now includes marine tetrapods and encompasses over 54,300 estimates for 3717 species associated with error estimates and geographical coordinates when available, hence enabling meta‐analytical approaches and better spatial matching of estimates with environmental conditions. Main Types of Variables Contained: Population density estimates and associated errors, time and location of data collection, taxonomic information, estimation method. Spatial Location: Global. Time Period and Grain: 1925–2024. Major Taxa and Level of Measurement: Amphibia, Reptilia, Aves and Mammalia. Estimates reported at the population level. Software Format:.csv. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive alien species severely impact native and endemic species, disproportionately affecting insular species like Caribbean reptiles. The Lesser Antillean iguana, Iguana delicatissima, is rapidly declining due to hybridization with non-native green iguanas (NNGIs). With numerous NNGI populations present in the region, the last I. delicatisisma-inhabited islands remain highly susceptible to invasion, whereupon the rapid in situ differentiation of NNGIs is essential. However, currently only few scale and coloration characters allow the in situ identification of NNGIs. Here, we assessed the differentiating power of an additional 20 meristic and length-dependent characteristics between the I. delicatissima population on St. Eustatius and the NNGI population on St. Maarten, the main source of NNGIs arriving on St. Eustatius. Of these, 13 significantly differed between I. delicatissima and NNGIs, with a ≥94% assignment accuracy in multi-variate predictive models. We recommend that these characteristics be assessed and validated, especially for hybrid individuals, allowing the identification of NNGIs even in populations where hybridization is ongoing. Our work demonstrates the value of investing in baseline morphometric datasets for I. delicatissima and other native iguanas to aid in the rapid in situ detection of NNGIs for removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chihuahuan Desert biogeographic province in Mexico is the largest of the fourteen biogeographic provinces of the country. This biogeographic province hosts a diverse array of amphibian and reptile species, with 262 native species, including 53 amphibians and 209 reptiles, accounting for a significant portion of Mexico's total amphibian (~12%) and reptile diversity (~21%). The Zacatecana subprovince exhibits the highest concentration of species for both groups (89% and 50% of Chihuahuan Desert amphibians and reptiles, respectively), indicating its importance for biodiversity within the Chihuahuan Desert. Comparative analyses with neighboring biogeographic provinces reveal substantial species overlap (48–55%), particularly with the Sierra Madre Oriental, the Transvolcanic Belt, and the Sierra Madre Occidental. These findings suggest strong ecological connections and corridors facilitating species exchange among these regions. Conservation assessments highlight the vulnerability of many species in the Chihuahuan Desert, with a notable percentage listed in the International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Red List (~12%) and higher percentages categorized by the Mexican government as at risk according to their conservation status and the Environmental Vulnerability Score (~40%). Threats primarily stem from habitat loss, pollution, and other anthropogenic factors. In conclusion, the Chihuahua Desert emerges as a biogeographic province of significant biological richness and valuable evolutionary history for amphibians and reptiles. Its conservation is imperative for safeguarding the distinctive species and ecosystems that characterize this desert biome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sunlight and the heat it provides are important ecological resources for reptiles especially for those species living in temperate zones that bask extensively to maximize heat uptake. Sun basking has both benefits and costs for reptiles, giving heat that provides the energy to drive physiology but basking in open patches increases risk of predation due to higher visibility. Prime basking sites are believed to increase benefits for reptiles that include, in addition to open sunlit areas, facilitate detection of predators and prey and escape to nearby refuges. However, if such sites are limited, both inter and intra-specific interference may occur and this kind of competition may impact on a reptile's ability to access prime basking sites, and as a consequence, its capacity to thermoregulate to optimum body temperatures. This may be especially important for juveniles, for whom rapid growth is a key factor in survivorship. We studied communal basking and interaction events at prime basking sites in the European green lizard, Lacerta bilineata, in a hedgerow in western France. We compared basking behaviour of adults and juveniles with sympatric adult wall lizards Podarcis muralis using non-invasive photographic-mark-recapture. Adult L. bilineata were more evenly distributed across basking sights compared to juveniles but significant differences were only detected between males and juveniles. Juvenile L. bilineata abandoned basking sites at the approach of both adult males and females and were aggressively removed by adult male L. bilineata. We found inter-specific communal basking between both adult and juvenile L. bilineata with adult wall lizards P. muralis. Communal basking was observed between male and female L. bilineata but not between adult males or between adult female L. bilineata. Communal basking was in proportionally greater frequency in juveniles compared to adult L. bilineata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Leaf-toed Gecko, Euleptes europaea, a rock-dwelling nocturnal gecko characteristic of Mediterranean Islands, is facing local extinctions and population decline at the margins of its range. Population monitoring through artificial retreat-sites (ARS) was implemented on French's Grand Rouveau and If islands to study the effects of management measures. We used Generalized Linear Models to identify: (i) the environmental variables (such as substrate, vegetation, and exposure to wind and sun) influencing the maximum number of individuals observed in ARS (studied in both islands); and (ii) the factors influencing ARS daily use (occupancy), including individual attributes such as age and weight, external temperature, and disturbance (Grand Rouveau only). The maximum number of geckos appeared to be determined by the thermal properties of ARS, as mediated by exposure to the dominant wind and sunlight, rather than by the structure of the habitat and nearby vegetation. An individual gecko's presence in an ARS was positively related to its presence in the same ARS on the previous day and negatively related to its age, the temperature of the previous night, and the number of days of disturbance. These results provide insights into the factors governing the selection and use of ARS by the European leaf-toed gecko and open perspectives on the use of ARS for the monitoring and conservation of this and other elusive terrestrial reptiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Zoologica Lilloana is the property of Fundacion Miguel Lillo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Acta Zoologica Lilloana is the property of Fundacion Miguel Lillo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Caribbean islands are particularly vulnerable to biological invasions. We update the distribution of the highly invasive mourning gecko, Lepidodactylus lugubris, in Guadeloupe, French Antilles, based on both extensive and intensive surveys conducted in spring 2022. Among 160 prospected sites, the probability of occurrence of the species did not differ significantly between urban, surburban/rural, and natural habitats. However, its density was significantly lower in the urban habitat compared to both the periurban habitat and the natural habitat. The occurrence and relative abundance of the mourning gecko was independent of that of the tropical house gecko, Hemidactylus mabouia, another nocturnal gecko introduced earlier in Guadeloupe. Finally, comparison with a previous study conducted in 2018 at a hotel resort suggests a two-fold increase in the abundance of the species in four years. We recommend investigating the ecological impact of L. lugubris in Guadeloupe to inform management decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self- and individual discrimination are needed to maintain social relationships. However the extent of precision of these abilities may depend on the social strategy of each individual, which may vary with ontogeny. Many animals use chemical cues to discriminate conspecifics. For example, many lizards use femoral gland secretions, which are composed of lipids and proteins, but it is not well known the role of each of these chemical classes in conspecific discrimination. We examined whether and how differences in age-dependent social strategies of male lizards Psammodromus algirus affect self- and individual chemosensory discrimination, and whether these are mediated by the lipid and/or protein fraction of femoral secretions. In this lizard species, there are two age categories of males that adopt alternative reproductive strategies; dominant and territorial "old" males and "young", but reproductively mature, satellite-sneaker males. We examined chemosensory responses to separated lipid and protein fractions of femoral secretions. Both young and old males discriminated both their own lipids and proteins from those of conspecific males of their same age category. With respect to individual discrimination, only old males distinguished different unfamiliar old males based on their lipids alone, but not on proteins, while they do not discriminate between different individual young males. In contrast, young males do not show individual discrimination in any case. Therefore, our results show age-related differences in chemical social discrimination abilities in male P. algirus lizards that could be explained by their different age-dependent social strategies. Significance statement: Self and individual discrimination is crucial in modulating animal social interactions, but the level of discriminatory ability may depend on the individual advantage associated with this ability. Male Psammodromus lizards adopt age-related reproductive strategies: older males actively defend their territories (and females therein), while younger ones stealthily try to enter these territories to mate with females. Both types of males use chemical secretions (protein-lipid mixtures) for intraspecific communication. We show that lizards of all ages can discriminate their own scent, independently from the available fraction (both lipids and proteins); only old males are able to discriminate lipids from other old individuals, but only if they are old, too. Therefore, the level of discrimination ability changes across life and is associated with the chemical nature of the stimulus, supporting the hypothesis that such skills are developed when they become advantageous, i.e., provide valuable information about potentially rivals (other old males) which may help in decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) savanna ecosystem is an imperiled, fire‐dominated community that supports exceptionally high levels of species richness and endemism. Area of this community has declined by more than 95% due to unsustainable logging, fire suppression, and changes in land‐use practices. In recent decades, efforts to restore fire‐dominated communities like longleaf pine savanna have gained popularity, especially in light of benefits to charismatic species like the northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus). Although reptiles are important members of this ecological community, far less information exists as to how this group responds to longleaf pine management, especially when game bird conservation is a primary management focus. Although bobwhite management in these systems is mostly synonymous with longleaf pine restoration, additional conservation practices aimed at game birds (promoting fallow fields, supplemental feeding, meso‐carnivore control, cross sectional mowing, etc.) might affect the extent to which squamates benefit from habitat management. To better understand how squamate reptiles may benefit from longleaf pine savanna managed for northern bobwhites, we surveyed for six‐lined racerunners (Aspidoscelis sexlineata) across a large, contiguous tract of longleaf pine with varied land cover characteristics, managed to maximize the conservation of northern bobwhites. Racerunner detection probability on transect surveys was low (p̂$$ \hat{p} $$ = 0.23); however, occupancy probability was relatively high (ᴪ̂ = 0.60) across the property and driven by percent open ground (positive; 25‐m scale), percent grass cover (negative; 25‐m scale), and percent wetland (negative; 100‐m scale). Our findings support those of past studies about six‐lined racerunners in longleaf pine savannas suggesting the species thrives in the context of a short fire rotation (e.g., 2–3 years), even when game bird management is a primary objective of conservation efforts. Racerunners may also specialize on microhabitats (e.g., upland areas with relatively high bare ground cover) that occur most frequently in recently burned portions of bobwhite management units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metals and metalloids are persistent environmental pollutants with the potential for bioaccumulation, posing significant health risks, including genotoxicity. These contaminants are prevalent in industrial and agricultural runoff. This study utilizes Trachemys dorbigni, an aquatic reptile, as a bioindicator to assess environmental contamination by metals and metalloids in both rural and urban settings in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. We captured specimens using pit-type traps with barriers (fyke nets), dividing them into two groups: 15 from a rural area and 15 from an urban area. Each animal underwent physical evaluations, and biometric data (weight, total carapace length and width) were recorded to calculate body condition indices. Biological samples were collected via manual restraint, with blood samples drawn from the supraoccipital venous sinus and linear carapace fragments obtained through manual scraping. Water samples from each location were also analyzed. Using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, concentrations of Al, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn were measured in the water, carapace fragments, and blood samples. Cellular damage was assessed through flow cytometry and microscopy, examining erythrocyte disruption, reactive oxygen species, membrane fluidity, DNA fragmentation and micronucleus formation. Urban area samples showed concentrations of As, Cd, Cu, Fe, Hg and Ni exceeding national standards set by the Conselho Nacional do Meio Ambiente (CONAMA), with rural areas also showing elevated levels of As, Cd, Hg and Ni. Biometric analysis revealed that rural reptiles had significantly higher weight and carapace dimensions, whereas urban tortoises displayed a higher body condition index and significantly elevated blood levels of Al, Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn. The urban tortoises also exhibited higher concentrations of all tested metal(loid) in carapace samples (p < 0.05) and more pronounced cellular damage (p < 0.05), highlighting severe bioaccumulation and associated deleterious effects. Elevated reactive oxygen species levels were noted in rural specimens. This study underscores the impact of water degradation and metal(loid) pollution in urban environments on T. dorbigni, suggesting that carapace tissue analysis can serve as a chronic exposure indicator to these harmful contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Reptiles are known reservoirs for members of the Enterobacterales. We investigated antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns, the diversity of extended-spectrum-/AmpC-β-lactamases (ESBL/AmpC) genes and the genomic organization of the ESBL/AmpC producers. Methods: A total of 92 shipments with 184 feces, skin, and urinate samples of live healthy reptiles were obtained during border inspections at Europe's most important airport for animal trade and screened for AMR bacteria by culture, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and whole genome sequencing (WGS) of selected isolates. Results: In total, 668 Enterobacterales isolates with phenotypic evidence for extended-spectrum-/AmpC-β-lactamases (ESBL/AmpC) were obtained, from which Klebsiella (n = 181), Citrobacter (n = 131), Escherichia coli (n = 116), Salmonella (n = 69), and Enterobacter (n = 52) represented the most common groups (other genera (n = 119)). Seventy-nine isolates grew also on cefotaxime agar and were confirmed as ESBL (n = 39) or AmpC (n = 39) producers based on WGS data with respective genes localized on chromosomes or plasmids. Isolates of E. coli contained the most diverse set of ESBL genes (n = 29), followed by Klebsiella (n = 9), Citrobacter, and Enterobacter (each n = 1). Contrarily, AmpC genes were detected in E. coli and Citrobacter (n = 13 each), followed by Enterobacter (n = 12) and Klebsiella (n = 4). Isolates of Salmonella with ESBL/AmpC genes were not found, but all genera contained a variety of additional AMR phenotypes and/or genotypes. MLST revealed 36, 13, 10, and nine different STs in E. coli, Klebsiella, Citrobacter, and Enterobacter, respectively. Conclusions: A significant fraction of the studied Enterobacterales isolates possessed acquired AMR genes, including some high-risk clones. All isolates were obtained from selective media and also wild-caught animals carried many AMR genes. Assignment of AMR to harvesting modes was not possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New reptilian fossils from the latest middle Eocene to late Eocene Crow Creek local faunafrom the Jackson Group of St. Francis County, Arkansas, add four turtles and two crocodilians to the fauna. These include a new species of the carettochelyid Anosteira, the kinosternid Xenochelys, the dermatemydid Baptemys, an unidentified cheloniid, and crocodilians cf. Borealosuchus and an alligatorid. The giant snake, Pterosphenus schucherti, was also a member of the reptilian fauna. Several of these are the most easterly records for these taxa.

Species richness, body size, and range size are among key subjects in animal macroecology and biogeography. To date, the species richness–body size–range size nexus remains largely understudied at a global scale and for large taxonomic groups. Here we examine the relative role of species richness and body size in determining species range size among terrestrial vertebrates across spatial and taxonomic scales. We then test related hypotheses in the context of Rapoport’s rule, latitude, and climate variation. To do this, we used simultaneous autoregressive analysis and structural equation modeling to test for statistical relationships among species richness, body size, and range size for all terrestrial vertebrates and for each continent. We then investigated the relative contributions of richness, body size, latitude, climate variation, and their combinations in the variations in species range sizes. We found that species richness consistently shows strong negative correlations with range size at global, regional, and within-region levels, and for all terrestrial vertebrates, and for each of the four classes (i.e., birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles). The strength of the relationships increased with richness and with spatial and taxonomic scales. Globally, species richness explained more variation in species range size than did latitude and climates. Body size contributed significantly to the range sizes of all four classes but especially reptiles and amphibians. However, the relative contributions of these factors varied substantially among the continents and terrestrial vertebrate classes. Comparison with the findings of a previous study shows that there were also significant differences in regional patterns between terrestrial vertebrates and plants and the relative contributions of diversity vs. latitude. Our findings show clear relationships among species richness, body size, and range size, but the strength of the relationships varies among regions and taxonomic groups. In general, species richness could predict species range size better than body size, latitude, and climate. These results have important theoretical and applied implications.

Species distribution modelling is a valuable tool for understanding and managing protected areas globally. This study used MaxEnt modelling with high-resolution environmental data and extensive in-situ observations to create habitat suitability maps for 16 reptile species in the highly biodiverse Souss-Massa National Park (SMNP), Morocco. The study examined the influence of environmental variables on species distribution and identified ecologically significant areas (species-rich areas). The results indicated that 94% of the models exhibited excellent predictive performance (AUC >0.9). Habitat types emerged as the most influential environmental variable for 75% of species, while the remaining taxa were primarily affected by soil type, vegetation density, and ocean proximity. Habitat suitability maps revealed distinct habitat preferences among species. The potential species richness map revealed variations within SMNP. Fenced reserves and undisturbed habitats both had a greater composition of highly diverse areas compared to unfenced and disturbed areas, respectively. The substantial proportion of disturbed areas with low species richness further supports the findings from a recent study conducted in the same area, which indicated that habitat disturbance can lead to the loss or decline of reptile populations. Priority for conservation should shift towards less protected areas to better safeguard reptile biodiversity, as most areas needing attention are outside well-protected reserves.

Abstract Toe fringes are a key innovation for sand dwelling lizards, and the relationship between toe fringe function and substrate properties is helpful in understanding the adaptation of lizards to sand dune environments. We tested the sand burial performance of Phrynocephalus mystaceus on different sand substrates with toe fringe manipulation, with the aim of assessing whether the function of the toe fringes shifts under different substrate properties, especially in highly mobile substrates. The sand burial performance of P. mystaceus was influenced by substrate properties in relation to the toe fringe states of the lizard. After removal of the bilateral toe fringes, the sand burial ability score of P. mystaceus was significantly higher on sand substrates below 100 mesh than on native sand substrates. As the angle of stability of the substrate properties decreased, the sand burial performance of the lizard was even better after the bilateral toe fringes were removed. The results of the LASSO model and the path analysis model showed that the stability angle provided the opposite effect on sand burial performance in different toe fringe states. These results further suggest that the sand burial function of toe fringes may not be suitable for highly mobile sand substrates. It remains to be tested further whether the function of toe fringes is more important for running on sand.

This paper reviews studies of the snakes of northeastern India published between 2001 and 2024 identified from searchable databases, covering diversity, range extension, distribution records, new genus, new species, redescription, rediscovery, and taxonomic revision. This analysis of the literature and publicly available information presents an updated checklist of 126 snake species representing 12 families and 46 genera, along with their distribution across states in northeastern India and their IUCN Red List status. The study also reveals a research gap in some northeastern states that provides opportunities for further regional studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) has become a widely used tool for studying the inner ear morphology of vertebrates. Amphisbaenians are one of the most specialized groups of fossorial reptiles but are poorly understood relative to other squamate reptile. In this paper we survey the anatomy of the inner and middle ear of these fossorial reptiles using HRCT models and we describe qualitatively and quantitatively (using 3D morphometrics) the anatomy of the inner ear. Amphisbaenians are diverse in skull anatomy, especially in the configuration of the snout, which correlates with digging modes. We demonstrate that the ear also exhibits a diversity of configurations, which are independent of phylogenetic relationships. Results from morphological analyses also allow us to describe 11 new potentially informative phylogenetic characters including some that help to diagnose amphisbaenians, such as: 1) the globular vestibule, ii) semicircular canals arranged in a circular trajectory, and iii) an extensive area of interaction between the columella footplate and the lagenar recess. Among extant amphisbaenians, Rhineura floridana has the most unusual inner ear configuration, including a horizontal semicircular canal that is in the same orientation as the inclined snout. The new morphological information helps us to better understand the morphology of headfirst-burrowing fossorial reptiles and contributes new data for resolution of phylogenetic relationships among amphisbaenians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to detect threats quickly is crucial for survival. Primates, including humans, have been shown to identify snakes quickly and accurately due to their evolutionary history. However, it is unclear which visual features humans and primates detect as threat targets. Several studies have suggested that snake scales possess potent visual features. My previous study demonstrated that removing snake scales through digital image processing reduces attention directed toward snakes. Here, I conducted a visual search task using luminance- and contrast-adjusted photographs of snakes and salamanders in monkeys that had never seen these real reptiles and amphibians. This study demonstrates that the presence or absence of snake scales is responsible for the rapid detection of target animals. The monkeys quickly detected one snake photograph from the eight salamander photographs than vice versa. However, when the same salamanders were clothed with snake scales using image processing, the difference in detection speed between snakes and salamanders disappeared. These results are consistent with the snake-detection theory that snakes were a strong selective pressure favoring modifications in the primate visual system that allow them to detect snakes more quickly or reliably. This strongly suggests that primates' snake detection depends on the snake-scale shapes, which are both snake-specific and common to all snakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new key biodiversity areas (KBA) standard is an important method for identifying regions of the planet‐hosting unique biodiversity. KBAs are identified through the implementation of threshold‐based criteria that can be applied to any target species and region. Current methods to rapidly assess the existence of potential KBAs in different areas of the planet still present important challenges, although they are needed to accelerate the KBA identification process for large numbers of species globally. We developed a methodology to scan geographical regions and detect potential KBAs under multiple criteria. We tested the methodology on 59 species of reptiles and amphibians in Italy through the application of selected KBA criteria. Potential KBAs were identified for multiple species under most criteria, covering 1.4%–12% of the study area, depending on analytical settings. Cell size used to identify KBAs played an important role in shaping the distribution of potential KBAs, also affecting the overlap between areas triggered by different criteria. New potential KBAs identified in this study are only partially coincident with current KBAs in Italy (previously identified for birds) and within the national protected areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pliocene faunas of the northeastern Iberian Peninsula are poorly known due to the scarcity of deposits from this interval. In this context, the site of Sant Nofre-Campredó (Baix Ebre, Catalonia, Spain), comprising two contemporaneous outcrops belonging to geologically correlated sections (Sant Nofre and Campredó-Via Fèrria), makes a significant contribution to the study of Pliocene faunas in this region. The first vertebrate remains were recovered in the late 1970s in clay deposits close to the Sant Nofre Hill. Later, intensive sampling in the 1980s at the Campredó-Via Fèrria outcrop led to the recovery of more than a hundred fossil specimens, including small vertebrates and large mammals. Here, we revise these collections to expand and update the vertebrate list, better constrain the age of the continental deposits, and characterize the environment and climate around the mouth of the Ebro River during the formation of the site. Up to 24 vertebrate species have been identified at Sant Nofre-Campredó, including amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. The presence of the rodents Paraethomys baeticus Piñero & Verzi, 2020, Apocricetus barrierei (Mein & Michaux, 1970), and Occitanomys brailloni Michaux, 1969 implies an early Ruscinian age (MN14 unit) for the two outcrops. Biostratigraphic correlations with other well-dated sites in the Iberian Peninsula refine the estimated age of Sant Nofre-Campredó to approximately 4.6 Ma. The ecological affinities of the identified fauna reveal a landscape dominated by woodland habitats in the surroundings of the site during the Early Pliocene, with presence of open humid meadows and water bodies under warm and moist climatic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microsatellites or simple sequence repeats (SSRs) are prevalent across various organisms' genomes. However, their distribution patterns and evolutionary dynamics in reptile genomes are rarely studied systematically. We herein conducted a comprehensive analysis of SSRs in the genomes of 36 reptile species. Our findings revealed that the total number of SSRs ranged from 1,840,965 to 7,664,452, accounting for 2.16%–8.19% of the genomes analyzed. The relative density ranged from 21,567.82 to 81,889.41 bp per megabase (Mbp). The abundance of different SSR categories followed the pattern of imperfect SSR (I‐SSR) > perfect SSR (P‐SSR) > compound SSR (C‐SSR). A significant positive correlation was observed between the number of SSRs and genome size (p = 0.0034), whereas SSR frequency (p = 0.013) or density (p = 0.0099) showed a negative correlation with genome size. Furthermore, no correlation was found between SSR length and genome size. Mononucleotide repeats were the most common P‐SSRs in crocodilians and turtles, whereas mononucleotides, trinucleotides, or tetranucleotides were the most common P‐SSRs in snakes, lizards, and tuatara. P‐SSRs of varying motif sizes showed nonrandom distribution across different genic regions, with AT‐rich repeats being predominant. The genomic SSR content of the squamate lineage ranked the highest in abundance and variability, whereas crocodilians and turtles showed a slowly evolving and reduced microsatellite landscape. Gene ontology enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses indicated that genes harboring P‐SSRs in the coding DNA sequence regions were primarily involved in the regulation of transcription and translation processes. The SSR dataset generated in this study provides potential candidates for functional analysis and calls for broader‐scale analyses across the evolutionary spectrum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding how continental radiations are assembled across space and time is a major question in macroevolutionary biology. Here, we use a phylogenomic-scale phylogeny, a comprehensive morphological dataset, and environmental niche models to evaluate the relationship between trait and environment and assess the role of geography and niche conservatism in the continental radiation of Australian blindsnakes. The Australo-Papuan blindsnake genus, Anilios , comprises 47 described species of which 46 are endemic to and distributed across various biomes on continental Australia. Although we expected blindsnakes to be morphologically conserved, we found considerable interspecific variation in all morphological traits we measured. Absolute body length is negatively correlated with mean annual temperature, and body shape ratios are negatively correlated with soil compactness. We found that morphologically similar species are likely not a result of ecological convergence. Age-overlap correlation tests revealed niche similarity decreased with the relative age of speciation events. We also found low geographical overlap across the phylogeny, suggesting that speciation is largely allopatric with low rates of secondary range overlap. Our study offers insights into the eco-morphological evolution of blindsnakes and the potential for phylogenetic niche conservatism to influence continental scale radiations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reptiles rely on hibernation to survive harsh winters, but climate change and pesticide use in agriculture jeopardize their survival, making the ecosystem vulnerable. S-metolachlor (SM), a commonly found herbicide in soil, and its metabolite metolachlor oxanilic acid (MO) induce oxidative stress and disrupt reproductive hormones. In this study, lizards were exposed to SM- and MO-contaminated soil for 45 days during hibernation. Weight loss and deaths occurred at the beginning of hibernation in all groups. Furthermore, the exposure group experienced severe oxidative stress and damage in the liver, kidney, heart, gonad, and brain. The testosterone levels significantly decreased in male lizards in both the SM and MO groups, whereas estradiol levels increased significantly in female lizards in the SM group. Gender-specific expression of steroidogenic-related genes in the brains and gonads of lizards was observed. Histological analysis revealed toxic effects induced by both SM and MO in vital organs during hibernation. Moreover, MO induced more severe reproductive toxicity in male lizards during hibernation. Therefore, this study suggests gender-specific toxic effects were observed in hibernating lizards exposed to SM and MO, underscoring the importance of vigilant monitoring of pesticide application in agriculture and assessing the potential harm of its metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A small, pristinely preserved specimen recently collected from the Dolese Brothers limestone quarry near Richards Spur, Oklahoma provides evidence for the presence of a new early Permian parareptile at this locality. The specimen includes an articulated, nearly complete skull roof, and with the right premaxilla, right quadratojugal, most of the right palate, as well as the right epipterygoid and the sphenethmoid preserved inside. Although similar in many respects to the other contemporary parareptiles Acleistorhinus, Delorhynchus and Colobomycter, it can be distinguished from other acleistorhinids by the presence of a number of autapomorphies related to its dentition. Phylogenetic analysis places it closer to Delorhynchus and Colobomycter within Acleistorhinidae than to Acleistorhinus pteroticus. Unique aspects of the present specimen include the pronounced anterior extension of the lacrimal bone, largely homodont dentition composed of simple conical crowns with slight recurvature in the premaxillary and anterior maxillary teeth, and simple conical crowns in posterior maxillary dentition. The discovery of this new parareptile along with the surprisingly large number of acleistorhinids at Richards Spur highlights the importance of the unique fissure and vertical cave system at this site. No other early Permian site has provided such a wide diversity of parareptilian taxa, part of a complex community of terrestrial vertebrates. The present specimen highlights the fine niche partitioning that appears to have been present among reptiles of this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]