Variation in the cranium shape of wall lizards (Podarcis spp.): effects of phylogenetic constraints, allometric constraints and ecology.

摘要: We used geometric morphometrics to explore the influence of phylogenetic and allometric constraints as well ecology on variation in cranium shape five species monophyletic, morphologically similar Podarcis lizards (Podarcis erhardii, melisellensis, muralis, sicula taurica). These belong different clades, they differ their habitat preferences can be classified into two distinct morphotypes: saxicolous terrestrial. found (i) no signal shape, (ii) diverging slopes among species, (iii) a significant effect shape. The (P. erhardii P. muralis) had crania with elongated parietals, bases, shortened anterior parts dorsal cranium, reduced chambers jaw adductor muscles larger subocular foramina. cranial features are adaptations that compensate for flattened dwelling vertical surfaces seeking refuge crevices. terrestrial taurica) tended more elongate robust, enlarged muscle, skull bases parietals. Terrestrial exhibited than species. Our study suggests sp. is largely influenced by ecology, which likely affects species-specific patterns static allometry.