Thermal physiology explains the elevational range for a lizard, Eutropis longicaudata, in Taiwan

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Zoology
• Physiology

Background:

• Reptile distribution is constrained by temperature along elevation gradients.
• The influence of forest cover on reptile elevational ranges is understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the roles of thermal physiology and forest cover in shaping the elevational range of Eutropis longicaudata.
• To model the species' maximum activity time under varying forest cover and elevation.

Main Methods:

• Laboratory experiments to determine thermal traits of E. longicaudata.
• NicheMapR modeling to simulate activity time based on thermal traits, forest cover, and elevation.
• Analysis of simulated soil temperatures to assess winter temperature influence.

Main Results:

• E. longicaudata exhibits high preferred body temperature and low cold tolerance.
• Modeled maximum activity time decreases with increasing elevation and forest cover.
• Taiwan's forested mountains limit activity above 1000m, aligning with observed lizard distribution below this threshold.

Conclusions:

• Reptile physiological responses are sensitive to microclimatic changes induced by forest cover and elevation.
• Forest cover is a critical determinant of E. longicaudata's elevational distribution.
• Understanding these interactions is key for predicting reptile range shifts.