Diet of the lizard Liolaemus occipitalis in the coastal sand dunes of southern Brazil (Squamata-Liolaemidae)

摘要: Knowledge of a species’ diet provides important information on adaptation and the relationship between organism its environment. The genus Liolaemus occurs in southern region South America is an excellent model to investigate adaptive processes vertebrate ecology ecosystems this world. occipitalis endangered species that inhabits coastal sand dunes Brazil. This most abundant environment, it presents unique characteristics restinga present study analyzed lizard’s verify similarities or differences other same genus. Specimens were collected monthly from January 1996 December 1997. number items, frequency occurrence volume each prey taxon determined. Arthropods identified order level, plant material was as flower, fruit, seed leaves. Variations males females, adults juveniles seasons also analyzed. data indicate generalist, “sit-and-wait” ambush predator well omnivorous, feeding both arthropods material. Significant ontogenetic verified. Juveniles are more carnivorous, intake increases with size age. Seasonal composition observed. In spring, arthropod materials diversified and, therefore, consumed often.