Fluctuating asymmetry does not reflect environmental stress during incubation in an oviparous lizard

Abstract

We analysed the relationship between incubation regime and fluctuating asymmetry in a cohort of juvenile lizards (Oligosoma suteri) incubated under laboratory conditions. We found no relationship between incubation temperature or water potential and the level of asymmetry in two cranial traits, although previous research showed profound effects of incubation temperature on gross morphology and hatching success. Our results suggest that fluctuating asymmetry is not a reliable indicator of developmental stress in this species. © The Royal Society of New Zealand 2007.