Sperm Parameter in Pristidactylus achalensis (Squamata: Leiosauridae), an Endemic Lizard to the Highest Mountain Areas in Central Argentina

BLENGINI, CECILIA; LOPEZ JURI, GUADALUPE; CHIARAVIGLIO, MARGARITA; UNATES, DIEGO RAFAEL; NARETTO, SERGIO

COPEIA

AMER SOC ICHTHYOLOGISTS HERPETOLOGISTS

Año: 2020 vol. 3 p. 538 - 544

0045-8511

Reproductive physiology is influenced by environmental pressures particularly in ectotherm species living in harsh climate conditions. Studying the the period of time in which males exhibit semen availability and sperm traits, constitutes a powerful tool to evaluate the fertility potential of males because sperm size and sperm velocity have been proposed as a determinant in fertilization success. Pristidactylus achalensis is an endemic lizard to the highest mountain areas in Central Argentina and shows a pattern of seasonal activity. Here, we study the period of time when males present sperm during the active season, and characterize the spermatozoa based on sperm morphometric and dynamic traits among males and within ejaculate. Males possess sperm in their ejaculates only during the spring months of the active season suggesting that reproductive activity is restricted to this time. Spermatozoa of Pristidactylus achalensis shows intra-specific variation in sperm traits among males and within ejaculate, suggesting different reproductive potential among males. Since this species only occupies the highest areas of the mountains and is categorized as vulnerable, basic information about reproduction and sperm physiology could be useful for potential population conservation strategies.