Ultraviolet and carotenoid-based coloration in the viviparous lizard Zootoca vivipara (Squamata: Lacertidae) in relation to age, sex, and morphology

摘要: Lizards display structural and pigment-based colorations, their visual system is sensitive to wavelengths of 300–700 nm. However, few studies in squamate reptiles have quantified interindividual colour variation that includes the ultraviolet (UV) component (300–400 nm). In present study, we investigated variability a ventral UV/yellow–red ornamentation common lizard Zootoca vivipara, including an analysis spatial distribution, as well sex age differences. We also whether expression coloration related body size condition. Our analyses revealed two distinct patches: gular patch with strong UV reflectance belly dominant yellow–red reflectance. Males displayed less saturated throat higher chroma hue, had redder but duller than females. Yearlings elaborate ornaments adults, although they already sexual dichromatism on belly. was only apparent adults result weaker females, suggesting potential fitness costs bright sex. Different traits were both sexes, condition males. discuss evolutionary scenarios leading maintenance this ornament lizards. © 2013 The Linnean Society London, Biological Journal Society, 2013, 110, 128–141.