Sexual dimorphism of body size and shell shape in European tortoises

摘要: Adult body size and shape were examined in almost 1400 individuals of the tortoises Testudo graeca, T. hermanni marginata from Greece. The at maturity was greater females than males all three species. Maximum mean adult sizes also graeca hermanni. Males grew to a larger marginata, similar sexes this Sexual dimorphism (adjusted for covariate) shown most characters examined, degree differed significantly among Differences related their contrasting courtship behaviours: horizontal head movements severe biting vertical bobs carapace butting mounting tail thrusting There no difference frequency observations or fighting species, but about 10 times more common combat males. All species showed greatest activity autumn; copulation rarely observed (only 0.36% courting males) not seen other field. Observations made throughout season indicated that feeding equally likely be result sexual selection natural fecundity. Detailed predictions are these