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

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary Biology
• Herpetology
• Behavioral Ecology

Background:

• Color polymorphism is common in nature but its evolutionary maintenance is complex.
• Stable color variation within species suggests selection on traits correlated with color.
• Social interactions and communication are key factors in understanding trait evolution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate a novel throat color polymorphism in the Aegean Wall Lizard (Podarcis erhardii).
• To examine differences in social behavior and communication traits among color morphs.
• To determine if color morphs correlate with bite force and chemical signaling.

Main Methods:

• Documented three throat color morphs (orange, yellow, white) in both male and female Podarcis erhardii.
• Measured maximum bite force capacity in relation to color morph.
• Analyzed chemical signal profiles (skin secretions) across different color morphs.

Main Results:

• Identified three distinct color morphs in Podarcis erhardii populations.
• Orange males were significantly larger and exhibited higher bite force compared to yellow and white males.
• Chemical profiles differed significantly between orange and white morphs, though not fully consistent across all morphs.

Conclusions:

• Morph color in Podarcis erhardii is associated with variations in traits critical for social interactions and competition.
• Bite force and chemical signals are morph-correlated, highlighting the role of these traits in polymorphism.
• Understanding the evolution of polymorphism requires examining traits beyond just coloration.