Mechanisms of regulation and maintenance of color polymorphism in the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis)

Abstract

Color polymorphism is widespread in animals, but mechanisms underlying morph evolution and maintenance are not yet completely understood. Among Reptiles, color polymorphism is quite common, particularly in Saurians, where it has often a genetic basis and is frequently associated with the evolution of alternative behavioural strategies (competitive and/or reproductive) related to social context. Both sexes of the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis) show three pure and three intermediate color morphs on ventral scales. In this study, I looked for associations between physiological traits, female reproductive strategies and colour morphs by analysing haematological profiles and primary reproductive efforts in P. muralis females.