The biogeography and some ecological aspects of the Teiid lizards (CNEMIDOPHORUS) of Trans-Pecos Texas

Abstract

Sympatric populations of Cnemidophorus in Trans-Pecos Texas were studied over a three year period, 1968-1970. Biological aspects of competition in relation to the environment, food, reproduction, and behavior were investigated. The year 1968 was a wet year while 1969 was a dry year. Shifts in species composition at selected sites were documented and correlated with climatic conditions. Corresponding shifts were noted to occur within a single season as the summer progressed from an early dry season to a late wet season. Systematic studies were conducted in order to determine the species involved in sympatric situations. Eight forms representing six species were included in the study: they were Cnemidophorus gularis, Cnemidophorus inornatus heptagrammus, Cnemidophorus exsanguis, Cnemidophorus septemvittatus septemvittatus, Cnemidophorus tesselatus E, Cnemidophorus tesselatus G, Cnemidophorus tesselatus H, and Cnemidophorus tigris marmoratus. Cnemidophorus tesselatus G and Cnemidophorus tesselatus H are two new populations of the parthenogenetic species occurring in Presidio County. ...