Age Determination of Ophisops elegans (Ménétriés, 1832) (Squamata: Lacertidae) Populations from Different Altitudes in Turkey

Abstract

In this study, comparison of body size and age of two populations of Ophisops elegans from different altitudes was carried out (Kepez, 180 m; Paşayaylası, 1250 m). We applied phalangeal skeletochronology to obtain the age of juveniles and adults by counting the lines of arrested growth (LAGs) in phalangeal cross-sections. Male-biased sexual dimorphism was observed in Kepez, while female-biased sexual dimorphism was determined in the Paşayaylası population. Both male and female individuals in Kepez and Paşayaylası populations reached sexual maturity at the age of 3. The maximum age or longevity was calculated as 7 years in males and 9 years in females. Considering all individuals, the Kepez population was found to be older than Paşayaylası population. For both populations, a significant positive correlation was found between age and size in males and females.