Reproductive and feeding ecology of the amphisbaenian Anops kingii in East-Central

Abstract

The reproductive and feeding ecology of Anops kingii was studied at the pampas mountain range of Argentina. Reproduction occurred from late winter (July) to early summer (December). Mean clutch size, based on the number of oviductal eggs, ranged from 2 to 4 eggs (x̄ = 3), whereas mean clutch size based on the number of yolked follicles was 2.2 eggs. Adult females were significantly larger than males and all male individuals had conspicuous precloacal pores, whereas all females lacked them. Diet was not diverse and consisted mainly of coleopteran larvae. Foraging activity decreased during the coldest months of the year. Individuals were found under large rocks predominantly during winter and spring. This seasonal pattern of activity near the surface would seem to be related more to thermoregulatory than to trophic requirements.