How effectively do European skinks thermoregulate? Evidence from Chalcides ocellatus , a common but overlooked Mediterranean lizard

摘要: Effective thermoregulation is of vital importance since body temperature affects virtually all physiological and biochemical processes. Yet, our current knowledge in reptilian largely based on a few, well-studied taxonomic groups. This especially true Europe, where insights derive primarily from studies the numerous lacertids continent. Skinks other hand remain understudied despite being abundant around Mediterranean. In this paper we examine effectiveness Ocellated Skink, common lizard whose thermal biology has been overlooked, focusing population typical Mediterranean habitat mainland Greece. We recorded temperatures field lab assessed quality through operative temperatures. Our findings suggest that Chalcides ocellatus poor thermoregulator stands very close to thermoconformity. The high allows Skink regulate its with less effort lower accuracy. indicates C. may have adopted distinct strategy, most probably due particular life style skinks.