Reproductive and population biology of the fringe-toed lizard, Acanthodactylus scutellatus, in Israel

The reproductive ecology of Acanthodactylus scutellatus was studied in Israel. This species inhabits shifting sand dunes, with plant cover typically <10%. Juveniles emerge from June to September, go through a period of reduced activity in winter and return to full activity next spring. Large individuals (>50 mm) begin to reproduce immediately upon emergence. Smaller animals reach sexual maturity later. Average number of eggs per clutch is 2•6 (range 1-4). In captivity, females deposit one to four clutches (average 2•3) between May and June. Maximum life expectancy of A. scutellatus in the wild is 1 year only.