Teiidae
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Ameiva |
Teiidae is a family of lizards, generally known as whiptails, that includes the parthenogenic genera Cnemidophorus and Aspidoscelis and the non-parthenogenic Tegus.
[edit] Morphology
Teiids can be distinguished from other lizards by the following characteristics: they have large rectangular scales that form distinct transverse rows ventrally and generally small granular scales dorsally, they have head scales that are separate from the skull bones, and the teiid teeth are solid at the base and "glued" to the jaw bones.
[edit] Parthenogenesis
Certain species of whiptail lizards have all-female or nearly all-female populations.[1] These lizards reproduce by parthenogenesis, and research has shown that simulated mating behavior increases fertility. For instance, one female lies on top of another, playing the role of the male. When they lay eggs, the lizard that was on bottom has larger eggs while the one on top has smaller. The lizards switch off this role each mating season. [2] The offspring are genetic clones of the mother, sparking debate as to how these lizards evolve or adapt to the environment. [3]
[edit] Sources
- Pianka, E. R. and L. J. Vitt. 2003 Lizards: Windows to the evolution of diversity. University of California Press. Berkeley.
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