Exploring the function of red colouration in female spiny-footed lizards (Acanthodactylus erythrurus): patterns of seasonal colour change

摘要: In spiny-footed lizards (Acanthodactylus erythrurus), adult females (but not males) show conspicuous red colouration in the tail and hind legs. To investigate function of this colouring proximal causes seasonal colour change, we captured before reproductive season kept them captivity one three following situations: with a male fertilization possible, impossible, or another female (fertilization also impossible). Colour was quantified using spectrophotometry. Red increased shortly onset reproduction, but faded during breeding became whitish (light buff-gray) all cases. Both fertilized unfertilized laid eggs were gravid after two months experiment, while mostly fertile eggs, only infertile eggs. egg formation change might be triggered by abiotic factors, although characteristics play role, since heavier changed earlier. Females interacting freely darker at end than separated from male, indicating that physical contact have an effect on colouration. patterns found study suggest mating-related function, do support courtship rejection for colour. However, resulting fading signal gravidity species. Future experimental manipulation will needed to test these hypotheses.