Frequency of reproduction, clutch size and clutch energy in the lizard Anguis fragilis.

Abstract

The reproductive cycle of female Anguis fragilis from Isle of Portland, Dorset, appears to be biennial. Fewer small females were reproducing in 1977 than in 1979 and the ratio clutch size:body size showed more variability in 1977. The droughts in the summers of 1975 and 1976 presumably had an adverse effect on A. fragilis reproduction in 1977. Total carcass energy in females about to give birth is much less than in females which are not reproducing that year. The ratio energy in clutch total energy in body varies from 0.29 to 0.38. -Author