Trait differences among discrete morphs of a color polymorphic lizard, Podarcis erhardii.

ABSTRACT: Color polymorphism defies evolutionary expectations as striking phenotypic variation is maintained within a single species. Color and other traits mediate social interactions, and stable polymorphism within a population is hypothesized to be related to correlational selection of other phenotypic traits among color morphs. Here, we report on a previously unknown throat color polymorphism in the Aegean Wall Lizard (Podarcis erhardii) and examine morph-correlated differences in traits important to social behavior and communication: maximum bite force capacity and chemical signal profile. We find that both sexes of P. erhardii have three color morphs: orange, yellow, and white. Moreover, orange males are significantly larger and tend to bite harder than yellow and white males. Al

SUBMITTER: Brock KM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7649010 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature