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Progesterone (P), 17-OH-progesterone (17-OH-P), androstenedione (A), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), testosterone (T), 5α-dihydrotestosterone (5α-DHT), and 17β-estradiol (E2) were measured by RIA in plasma and testes of 114 males of the oviparous lizard Podarcis s. sicula raf, a species that displays annual hibernating cycles. Hormones were determined each month from January until December, except for August. Testosterone peaked at 174.8 ng/ml of plasma after emergence (March), while 5α-DHT and A peaked in April. Plasma DHEA increased during hibernation. During the refractory period there were progressive increases in P and E2 plasma levels. The testicular peak of T, in March, coincided with that observed in plasma. The striking increases in testicular T and A in early July occurred at a time when plasma androgen concentrations were low. 5α-DHT increased in April when spermatogenesis with spermiation occurred and then decreased alongside a second peak of T. There is an apparent separation of plasma and testicular androgen concentrations during the reproductive cycle.

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Progesterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, testosterone and oestradiol concentrations in the plasma were measured by simultaneous radioimmunoassay in males of the lizard Podarcis s. sicula. Hormonal determinations were performed at monthly intervals from January to December (except for August). Testosterone and androstenedione reached peak values of 174.8 ng/ml and 21.4 ng/ml in the mating season (spring) and then testosterone fell abruptly to 5.9 ng/ml in June remaining at this level during hibernation when dehydroepiandrosterone (DHA) reached a maximal level of 28.5 +/- 9.3 ng/ml. Castration resulted in a marked decrease of testosterone, androstenedione, dihydrotestosterone and DHA values, with DHA being significantly lowered only during the winter season. In castrated animals, however, testosterone and androstenedione persisted conspicuously in the plasma during the breeding period, suggesting that adrenal sex steroid output may change during the annual reproductive cycle. In intact animals, progesterone and oestradiol exhibited peak values during the refractory period after the mating season. We suggest a probable role of oestradiol in the induction of the refractory period in this lizard.

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From the middle of the refractory period, adult males of Podarcis s. sicula Raf. (Reptilia Lacertidae) were treated with different photothermal regimes: 28 °C, combined with darkness, short or long photoperiods. The treatments were short (21-41 days) and long (exceeding 10 months). In both cases, in spring, recrudescence of testes occurred early after long photoperiods and was markedly delayed after darkness. In the latter case, moreover, the summer crisis is remarkably anticipated as compared to the controls. High temperatures, combined with short photoperiod, induce limited stimulatory effects on spermatogenesis with a poor development of the secondary sexual characteristics. A comparison between the results obtained from short and long term experiments clearly show that the autumnal refractory period is of fundamental importance in the regulation of the reproductive cycle of Podarcis s. sicula. In fact, during this period, the gonadal activity is « programmed » and pre-arranged for the next spring reproductive period.

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The evolution of sex steroids in the plasma and gonads of the lizard Podarcis s. sicula during the postreproductive period shows that these hormones could be involved in determining refractoriness. In the male, during this phase, the oestradiol could lower the hypothalamo-hypophyseal system through a negative feed-back. In the female a similar role could be assigned to progesterone.

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The effects of mammalian gonadotropins on spermatogenesis in Lacerta s. sicula Raf. was studied during the autumn thermic refractory period. During this period the mammalian gonadotropins induce a stimulation of spermatogenesis and of the epididymis. FSH acts preferentially on the spermatogonial multiplication and on the primary spermocytes; LH acts on all the stages of spermatogenesis, but in particular on spermiohistogenesis and spermiation; moreover it causes a marked development of the epididymis and of the SSC. The effects of gonadotrophins are temperature dependent: below 18°C stimulation concerns only the early stages of spermatogenesis and spermiation does not occur; at 27°C a complete spermatogenesis with maximum spermiation occurs. At 30°C gonadotrophins induce a strong stimulation of the gonad, but this stimulation is accompanied by frequent degenerative phenomena of the secondary spermatocytes and spermatids. LH is more capable than FSH of limiting this degeneration. Testosterone does not prevent the regression of spermatogenesis due to high temperatures, while it causes a clear development of the epididymis.

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The present study investigated the role of D-aspartic acid (D-Asp) in ovarian steroidogenesis and its effect on aromatase activity in the lizard, Podarcis s. sicula. It was determined that D-Asp concentrations vary significantly during phases of the reproductive cycle: they vary inversely with testosterone concentrations and directly with oestradiol concentrations in the ovary and plasma. Experimental treatment showed that administration of D-Asp induces a decrease in testosterone and an increase in oestradiol, and that treatment with other amino acids (L-Asp, D-Glu and D-Ala) instead of D-Asp has no effects. Experiments in vitro confirmed these results. Furthermore, these experiments showed an increase in aromatase activity, as the addition of D-Asp either to fresh ovarian tissue homogenate or to acetonic powder of ovarian follicles induced a significant increase in the conversion of testosterone to oestradiol. Aromatase activity is four times greater in the presence of D-Asp than in its absence. However, almost equivalent values of the two K(m) values (both approximately 25 nmol l(-1)) indicate that aromatase has the same catalytic properties in both cases.

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It is reported about the rediscovery of a population of the Balearic Lizard (Podarcis lilfordi) on the Illa de Ses Mones in the harbour of Port d´Addaia. This population has been considered to have become extinct during the 1990s due to the introduction of the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus). Descriptions of the island and the lizards are given and for the first time it is reported about the sympatric occurrence of Podarcis lilfordi and P. siculus. Because in quite a lot of publications the nearby Illot d´en Carbó has been confused with the Illa de Ses Mones the taxonomic status of the rediscovered Podarcis lilfordi population from the Illa de Ses Mones is discussed in this paper.

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We report on our observations on Podarcis lilfordi (GÜNTHER, 1874) during our 8 day trip to the natural park of s’Albufera des Grau (Spain/Menorca) and give preliminary conclusions on the status of some populations.

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We report on our observations on Podarcis lilfordi (GÜNTHER, 1874) and other Menorcan herpetofauna during our 12 day trip to Menorca (Balearics, Spain). 13 populations of Podarcis lilfordi were surveyed, 101 specimens were measured and photographed in detail, from which 84 specimens were “buccal-swabbed” for DNA samples. The subspecific status of Hemidactylus turcicus spinalis from Addaia Gran is discussed and rejected.

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The author describes a herpetological vacation on Corsica. It is an island with lots ofdifferent habitats, where reptiles and amphibians are abundant. Several (sub)species are endemic to Corsica or to both Corsica and Sardinia, for instance Archaeolacerta bedriagae, Podarcis tiliguerta, Algyroides fitzingeri, Discoglossus montalemii, D. sardus, Hyla sarda, Euproctus montanus, Salamandra salamandra corsica and Natrix natrix corsa. Several others are probably introduced by men, for instance Podarcis sicula cam- pestris (in Ajaccio, Porro-Vecchio and Basria), P. s. cettii (in Bonifacio), Tarentola mauritanica, Rana esculenta, Bufo viridis and Testudo hermanni. Corsica and Sardinia are part of the natural distribution o f Phyllodactylus europaeus, Hemidactylus turcicus, Coluber viridif/avus, Emys orbicularis, Caretta caretta and Dermochelys coriacea, that inhabit other parts of Europe as well. Several species of lizards are in a more or less fierce competition with each other. A. bedriagae for instance is pushed to high altitude, bare rock and granite boulders in little streams, by P. tiliguerta. P. sicula campestris is successful in flat terrain, leaving only walls ofstacked stones toP. tiliguerta. P. s. cettii doesn`t even leave this habitat toP. tiliguerta. As for now P. sicula is restricted mainly to coastal areas, lea- ving the better part of Corsica to P. tiliguerta. D. sardus and D. montalentii are only recently recog- nised as different species. D. montalentii is endemic to Corsica, whereas D. sardus is known too from Sardinia. D. montalentii is living in high altitudes, especially in clear mountain-streams, D. sardus in lower altitudes and has a less specialised preference for its habitat. Corsica is a very interesting island from a herpetolo- gical point ofview.

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Data on the distribution of Teira perspicillata on Menorca, on its habitat and syntopic occurrence with Podarcis siculus cetti and Tarentola mauritanica are reported.

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A new locality for the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis sicula sicula) in France (Hymnes, Côte d`Azur) The ltalian wall lizard (Podarcis sicula) originates from Italy and the coastal regions of the Adriatic Sea. In addition, it has known introduced populations in Tunisia, Spain, the USA and two localities in France. The author reports evidence for a third introduction in France, in a plant nursery (`Jardinerie du gros pin`) in Hyeres on the Côte d`Azur. Whilst visiting this plant nursery, the author observed a green-coloured lizard on the trunk of an imported, large olive tree, on display for the purpose of sale. On closer inspection, four additional specimes (all adults, three males and two females in total) were found in the immediate vicinity. Common, brown, wall lizards (P. muralis merremia) were also encountered. The author identified the green specimens as P. sicula sicula and suspects the animals were inadvertently introduced, being stowaways on imported old trees, originating from a.o. southern Italy.

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The surroundings of Lake Garda have a rather mild climate for northern Italy. The most often found reptile species in this region are the Wall lizard (Podarcis muralis maculiventris) and the Western Green lizard (Lacerta bilineata bilineata). In 2004 the author unexpectedly found in this region the Italian Wall lizard (Podarcis sicula) and the Moorish gecko (Tarentola mauritanica). In Italy this last gecko species is generally found in the coastal areas. It is presumed that these uncommon observations are a result of unintended introductions by men through the imports of large Olive-trees from southern Italy (Foggia), this makes it most likely that these Italian Wall lizards belongs to the subspecies P. s. sicula. All observed P. sicula (juveniles included), geckos and an egg, possibly of the Moorish gecko, were found in a large garden centre (near Padenghe). One Tarentola was found on the wall of a toilet building on a camping site. The author speculates that the mild climate makes it possible for the animals to reproduce in this region.

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In 2004 several Podarcis sicula were discovered for the first time at a nursery near Padenghe sul Garda (Italy). Some of them were juveniles. It was believed that these lizards could start a viable population (Bruekers, 2006). In 2009 the site was checked again. Podarcis muralis maculiventris was abundant. It was obvious that Podarcis muralis used every suitable niche. After a while only one adult female Podarcis sicula could be found. This one and only specimen was difficult to photograph. The author speculates that competition between these lizards species is the main reason that P. sicula failed to establish a viable population. Maybe there were not enough P. sicula to start a new population? In addition the less favourable climate conditions could be another disadvantage for these introduced P. sicula which probably originate from the southern parts of Italy (Bruekers, 2006). This small population of Podarcis s. sicula near Padenghe is presumed to be extinct, only five years after its first discovery in 2004.

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The ecological theory of island biogeography suggests that mainland populations should be more genetically divergent from those on large and distant islands rather than from those on small and close islets. Some island populations do not evolve in a linear way, but the process of divergence occurs more rapidly because they undergo a series of phenotypic changes, jointly known as the Island Syndrome. A special case is Reversed Island Syndrome (RIS), in which populations show drastic phenotypic changes both in body shape, skin colouration, age of sexual maturity, aggressiveness, and food intake rates. The populations showing the RIS were observed on islets nearby mainland and recently raised, and for this they are useful models to study the occurrence of rapid evolutionary change. We investigated the timing and mode of evolution of lizard populations adapted through selection on small islets. For our analyses, we used an ad hoc model system of three populations: wildtype lizards from the mainland and insular lizards from a big island (Capri, Italy), both Podarcis siculus siculus not affected by the syndrome, and a lizard population from islet (Scopolo) undergoing the RIS (called P. s. coerulea because of their melanism). The split time of the big (Capri) and small (Scopolo) islands was determined using geological events, like sealevel rises. To infer molecular evolution, we compared five complete mitochondrial genomes for each population to reconstruct the phylogeography and estimate the divergence time between island and mainland lizards. We found a lower mitochondrial mutation rate in Scopolo lizards despite the phenotypic changes achieved in approximately 8,000 years. Furthermore, transcriptome analyses showed significant differential gene expression between islet and mainland lizard populations, suggesting the key role of plasticity in these unpredictable environments.

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The ecological theory of island biogeography suggests that mainland populations should be more genetically divergent from those on large and distant islands rather than from those on small and close islets. Some island populations do not evolve in a linear way, but the process of divergence occurs more rapidly because they undergo a series of phenotypic changes, jointly known as the Island Syndrome. A special case is Reversed Island Syndrome (RIS), in which populations show drastic phenotypic changes both in body shape, skin colouration, age of sexual maturity, aggressiveness, and food intake rates. The populations showing the RIS were observed on islets nearby mainland and recently raised, and for this they are useful models to study the occurrence of rapid evolutionary change. We investigated the timing and mode of evolution of lizard populations adapted through selection on small islets. For our analyses, we used an ad hoc model system of three populations: wildtype lizards from the mainland and insular lizards from a big island (Capri, Italy), both Podarcis siculus siculus not affected by the syndrome, and a lizard population from islet (Scopolo) undergoing the RIS (called P. s. coerulea because of their melanism). The split time of the big (Capri) and small (Scopolo) islands was determined using geological events, like sealevel rises. To infer molecular evolution, we compared five complete mitochondrial genomes for each population to reconstruct the phylogeography and estimate the divergence time between island and mainland lizards. We found a lower mitochondrial mutation rate in Scopolo lizards despite the phenotypic changes achieved in approximately 8,000 years. Furthermore, transcriptome analyses showed significant differential gene expression between islet and mainland lizard populations, suggesting the key role of plasticity in these unpredictable environments.

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Animals living on small islands are more drastically exposed to environmental changes, such as food or water starvation, and rapid temperature shifts. Facing such conditions, and probably thank to adaptive plasticity mechanisms, some animals display a Reversed Island Syndrome (RIS), a suite of traits, including skin pigmentation, voracity, sexual dimorphism, showed differently from mainland relatives. Here, we analyse a so far poorly explored aspect of RIS: the effect of this on the microbiota composition of host Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus), strongly influenced by the animal’s lifestyle, and conditioning the same. We compare mainland and island populations, assessing the difference between their microbial communities and their response under unexpected food, experimentally provided. Our observations showed a significant difference in microbiota communities between island and mainland groups, depended mainly from changes in relative abundance of the shared genera (difference due to decrease/increase). Exposure to experimental diet regimes resulted into significative reshaping of bacterial composition of microbiota and a greater variation in body mass only in the island population. Our results could be an evidence that gut microbial community contributes to adaptive plasticity mechanisms of island lizards under RIS to efficiently respond to unexpected changes.

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A detailed study on the genome of the lizard P. sicula has been carried out using restriction enzyme analysis followed by identification and cloning of a repetitive DNA fraction. The results show that P. sicula generally possesses a quite homogeneous genome composition, with a single tandemly repetitive sequence family that is easily visualized after digestion of genomic DNA with Taq I. The cloned repeating unit of this satellite (260 bp) has been designed pLCSl. In-situ hybridisation shows that this satellite is localized in the centromeric region. Dot blot experiments show that sequences similar to pLCSl are present in other species of the same family of lizards.

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The genetic structure and heterogeneity of Podarcis sicula (Reptilia, Lacertidae) was studied in insular (Pontine Archipelago) and mainland (central and southern Italy) populations by means of allozyme electrophoresis at 20 presumptive gene loci. Genetic variability in the species is low and genetic subdivision is high. The highest values of percent polymorphism and heterozygosity were found in the samples from the southernmost part of Italy (Calabria). The insular samples from the Pontine Archipelago were characterized by loss of alleles and erosion of genetic variability. Population heterogeneity analysis carried out by the estimation of Wright`s F-statistics demonstrated substantial genetic differentiation among populations. F-statistics and genetic distance data show that genetic variation is distributed into three population groups. The first group includes the genetically very similar populations from central Italy and the Pontine Archipelago, the second includes the populations from Campania (southern Italy), the third comprises the populations from the southernmost part of the Italian Peninsula (Calabria). Based on the results of the allozyme data, the systematic status of the subspecies of P. sicula occurring in the studied areas is discussed.

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In this investigation, lizard species of Turkish Thrace are investigated indetail for the first time. Morphological characretirstics, range, distribution and subspecific states of the species are given. Furthermore, some observations concerning their biological and ecological characteristics are also given. In this study a total of 678 specimens and 10 species belonging to 3 families of Lacertilia have been investigated from Turkish Trace.

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The orbital glands of the lizard Podarcis s. sicula are represented by the anterior and posterior lacrimal glands and the Harderian gland. The anlage of the Harderian gland appears on about the 22nd day of development in the form of a short tubule projecting from the conjunctival epithelium. This event is coincident with the appearance of the nictitating membrane. At this stage the mesenchymal cells surrounding the glandular blastema proliferate at a high rate and form a definite sac, later occupied by both the Harderian gland and the anterior lacrimal glands. At the 26th day of development, the glandular blastema forms acini at its distal end. The prospective glandular cells are not yet differentiated histologically. At the 36th day of development, differentiated serous glandular cells become visible. At the 41st day of development, the acini fill up the preformed mesenchymal sac. Only at this stage does the most medial part of the gland differentiate into mucous-secreting anterior lacrimal gland. At the same time, a small primordium of the posterior lacrimal gland can be seen in the posterior commissure of the eye. The appearance of junctional complexes between epithelial cells and mesenchymal cells in the early developmental stages supports the role of the mesenchyme in the differentiation of the glandular cells. Since the glandular anlage differentiates laterally into Harderian gland and medially into anterior lacrimal gland, spatial and temporal differences seem to exist in the ekinductive process. Furthermore, a concentration gradient of the inductive substance(s) may be envisaged, since an intermediate zone is present between the Harderian gland and the anterior lacrimal gland, consisting of mixed glandular cells containing both mucous and serous secretory granules.

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There are always more evidences indicating that 17β-estradiol (E2) is necessary for normal male fertility. We have used a nonmammalian vertebrate model (the lizard Podarcis s. sicula) to investigate the regulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) activity in the testis during the annual sexual cycle and to study whether E2 exerts a role in the spermatogenesis through ERK1/2 activity. Immunocytochemistry analysis shows that ERK1/2 proteins are present in the nucleus of the spermatogonia (SPG), and in primary (I) spermatocytes (SPC). The annual E2 profile shows a progressive increase during the active spermatogenesis (from April to June) and a peak in the month of August (spermatogonial mitosis). In parallel, ERK1/2 (molecular weight 44 and 42 kDa, respectively) are highly phosphorylated during the period of active spermatogenesis and in post-refractory period (August) compared with the winter stasis (from November to March). Present results demonstrate that E2 treatment induces spermatogonial proliferation, possibly via the activation of ERK1/2, and this effect is counteracted by the antiestrogen ICI 182-780.

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The distribution of immunoreactive GnRH-like substances in various tissues of the lizard {Podarcis s. sicula) in relation to different phases of the sexual cycle are described. GnRH-like substances in the hypothalamic extracts decrease during the reproductive period. In the extrahypothalamic tissue, the levels of immunoreactive GnRH-like substances are highest in early spring and summer, and decrease in autumn, winter and late spring. In the other tissues (gonads, liver and small intestine), a more constant immunoreactivity has been observed. All tissue extracts stimulate the release of luteininzing hormone (LH) from chicken anterior pituitary cells. In testis this phenomenon is more evident in early spring and sum- mer; in the other tissues, two peaks of activity can be detected, in spring and in autumn. These findings suggest that GnRH-like substances could be involved in the regulation of various aspects of reproductive processes in the lacertid Podarcis s. sicula Raf.

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The effects of various gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) forms (mammalian GnRH (mGnRH), chicken I GnRH (cGnRH-I), chicken II GnRH (cGnRH-II) and salmon GnRH (sGnRH)) on the genital apparatus and plasma testosterone level in the male lizard, Podarcis s. sicula, have been investigated. In short duration experiments (20 min to 76 h) GnRH forms did not affect testicular and epididymal morphology. A single dose (0.05 mug) of mGnRH, cGnRH-II and sGnRH, however, induced a rise in plasma testosterone after 20 to 40 min. Variable results were obtained in the animals given GnRH variants every 12 h for 3 days since mGnRH and cGnRH-I caused a decrease of circulating hormone; cGnRH-II and sGnRH a slight increase. Daily peptide administration, for 15 to 30 days, caused severe inhibition of both testicular and epididymal activity and a significant drop of circulating testosterone. In Podarcis s. sicula, species specificity of pituitary sensitivity to GnRH variants appeared to be low. On the other hand, this gland seemed to show some desensitization after chronic peptide administration.

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Only some island populations of Podarcis sicula are hyperchromatic. The study of this phenome- non and its relationship with the lizards of the mainland and other islands, exhibiting a “normal” coloration, provides useful hints in our understanding of evolutionary mechanisms that have cre- ated the observed morphological variation. We performed a comparative morphological and genetic analysis of a hyperchromatic lizard population from Licosa Island, and compared the data with that obtained from normal-colored lizard populations both from Ustica and Cirella islands in the Tyrrhenian sea and from nearby mainland Italy. Morphological and microsatellite gene differentiation in the hyperchromatic Licosa population appears to have been much more rapid than the molecular evolution of the mtDNA. We discuss herein that the comparison of hyperchromatism and other types of morphological variation with molecular data in island populations of lizards may provide useful hints as to evolutionary mechanisms.

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The possible role of prostaglandins in the reproductive processes of the male lizard, Podarcis sicula sicula, was investigated. The plasma levels of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), progesterone, androgens, and 17β-estradiol, and the in vitro basal release of these hormones by testis, epididymis and interrental, at different phases of the annual sexual cycle, were studied. In addition, the in vivo and in vitro effects of PGF2α and PGE2 on steroid production were evaluated. In in vivo experiments, PGF2α and 17β-estradiol plasma levels were highest during the refractory phase; PGE2 values were lowest and androgens highest in fighting phase. PGF2α injection increased 17β-estradiol in refractory phase; PGE2 increased androgens in fighting phase and 17β-estradiol in refractory phase. In in vitro experiments, testis released the highest levels of PGF2α and 17β-estradiol in refractory phase, and of PGE2 and androgens in fighting phase. Interrenal released the highest levels of PGF2α, PGE2, and 17β-estradiol in refractory phase, and of androgens in fighting phase. Epididymis released the highest values of PGF2α and PGE2 in mating phase. PGF2α treatment increased 17β-estradiol release by testis and interrenals in refractory phase. PGE2 treatment increased androgen release by testis in fighting phase and 17β-estradiol release by interrenal in refractory phase. The present data indicate that in male lizards, P. s. sicula, testicular androgen synthesis during the fighting phase is under the control of PGE2, while 17β-estradiol synthesis during refractory phase is regulated in the testis by PGF2α and in interrenal by PGF2α and PGE2.

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The release of PGF2 and PGE2`, progesterone, androgens and oestradiol in vitro, and the aromatase activity in the brain of the male lizard Podarcis sicula sicula during three different phases of the reproductive period were evaluated. In addition, the effects of salmon GnRH, substance P, salmon GnRH antagonist, substance P antagonist, PGF2`, PGE2 and acetylsalicylic acid on the release of prostaglandins and sex steroids and on aromatase activity in the brain were evaluated during the same three phases. PGF2`, oestradiol and aromatase activity were higher during the refractory phase, androgens during the fighting phase, and progesterone during the mating phase, while PGE2 was lower during the refractory phase. Treatment with salmon GnRH increased PGF2`, oestradiol and aromatase activity, but decreased the amount of androgens released. Substance P decreased PGF2`, oestradiol and aromatase activity, but increased the amount of androgens released. PGF2 increased oestradiol and aromatase activity, but decreased the amount of androgens released. Acetylsalicylic acid decreased PGF2`, oestradiol and aromatase activity, but increased the amount of androgens released. These data suggest that salmon GnRH and substance P have different roles in reproductive processes, with opposite mechanisms, in the central nervous system of this male lizard: salmon GnRH seems to be involved in regulating the refractory phase, while substance P plays a role in regulating the fighting phase.

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Prostaglandin F2, (PGF2,), prostaglandin E2 (PCE 2). progesterone, androgens, and estradiol-17 β vitro basal release by follicles of the oviparous lizard, Podareis s. sicula was studied, in addition, the in vitro effect of PGF2 and PGE2 on sex steroid release was evaluated. Follicles were divided according to the different vitellogenic developmental stages: pre-viteltegeoie, early-vitellogenic, mid-vitellogenic and fairy-grown. PGF2, and progesterone basal release was highest in fully-grown follicles; PGE2 and estradiol basal release was highest in early-vitellogenic follicies; androgens basai release was delectable m mid-vitellogenic and fully-grown vitellogenic follicies only. PGF2, increased progesterone release by fully-grown follicies; PGE2 increased estradiol release by all follicle types, except by early-vitellogenic ones. The present data suggest that PGF2;, and PGE2 exert different roles on follicles: PGF2.seems to induce ovulation through the mediation of progesterone, while PGE2 seems tobe implied in the start and the sustaining of oocyte vitellogenic development through the mediation of estradiol.

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The release in vitro of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), progesterone, androgens and estradiol-17 beta by the corpora lutea (CL) of the oviparous lizard, Podarcis s. sicula, was studied. In addition, the in vitro effects of PGF2 alpha and PGE2 on sex steroid release by CL were evaluated. Corpora lutea were divided into four types, according to their different developmental stage: CL1 (unshelled eggs in the oviduct); CL2 (shelled eggs in the oviduct); CL3 (eggs laid 6 h previously); CL4 (eggs laid 48 h previously) and were placed into culture. PGF2 alpha secretion was highest in CL4 incubated samples and lowest in CL2 and PGE2 was highest in CL1 and CL2. Progesterone secretion was highest in CL2 and lowest in CL4; androgens were not detectable and estradiol-17 beta secretion was highest in CL2. PGF2 alpha decreased progesterone secreted by CL1, CL2 and CL3, while it did not modify release of androgens and estradiol-17 beta. PGE2 did not affect sex steroid release. These data suggest a role of PGF2 alpha in inducing luteolysis, while PGE2 could be implied in the maintenance of CL. A role of progesterone during gestation of Podarcis s. sicula was also confirmed.

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The in vitro effects of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on corticosterone release by ovarian follicles, corpora lutea (CL), and interrenals were studied in the female lizard, Podarcis sicula sicula, during reproduction. Follicles and CL studied in the female lizard, Podarcis sicula sicula, during reproduction. Follicles and CL were divided according to their different developmental stages; follicles: previtellogenic, early-vitellogenic, mid-vitellogenic and fully-grown; CL: CL1 (unshelled eggs in the oviducts), CL2 (shelled eggs in the oviducts), CL3 (eggs laid 6 h previously) and CL4 (eggs laid 48 h previously). Interrenals were divided according to the reproductive stages: pre-vitellogenesis, vitellogenesis, ovulation, post-ovulation, and post-deposition. PGF2 alpha release was highest in fully-grown follicles and PGE2 in early-vitellogenic follicles, corticosterone was highest in pre-vitellogenic and lowest in early-vitellogenic follicles. PGE2 decreased corticosterone in pre-vitellogenic, mid-vitellogenic and fully-grown follicles. PGF2 alpha release was highest in CL4, and PGE2 in CL1 and CL2, corticosterone was highest in CL4. PGF2 alpha increased corticosterone in CL1, CL2 and CL3. In interrenals, PGF2 alpha release was highest and PGE2 lowest during ovulation, corticosterone was highest during ovulation. PGF2 alpha increased and PGE2 decreased interrenal corticosterone during vitellogenesis, ovulation, and post-ovulation. In the plasma, PGF2 alpha levels were highest and PGE2 lowest during ovulation, corticosterone was highest during ovulation. These results suggest that corticosterone, modulated by PGF2 alpha and PGE2, is implied in the reproductive processes with different roles. In fact this steroid could favour ovulatory and luteolytic processes. In addition the hypothesis of an anti-vitellogenic role of corticosterone is discussed.

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Six specimens of Podarcis siculus hieroglyphicus from Filyos, Zonguldak Province, in the western Black Sea region were collected. This new record extended eastward seriously (ca. 250 km) the known distribution area of the subspecies in Turkey. The meristic (pholidolial) and metric (morphometric) characters and color-pattern features of specimens collected from Filyos, Zonguldak, are given in detail and compared with the specimens from other known Turkish localities with regard to the literature. The specimens examined were similar to P. siculus hieroglyphicus specimens mentioned in the literature.

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Insulin was administered to Podarcis sicula in winter, when the thyroid gland is inhibited. The activity of the thyroid increased, plasma concentrations of thyroid hormones and hepatic 5`-monodeiodinase activity (MDA) increased, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) concentrations fell to undetectable values. This result confirms the influence of insulin on the activity of the thyroid gland in the lizard species studied. The mechanisms are still unclear, although there is evidence which leads us to believe that insulin is directly responsible for thyroid activation.

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The adrenaline cells of the adrenal gland of Lacerta sicula are distributed differently from those of Squamata since they are present not only in the adrenal (chromaffin) islets scattered between the interrenal (steroidogenic) cords, but are also present in the inner rows of the dorsal chromaffin ribbon. For this reason we have administered ACTH to some specimens of this species to investigate whether in the chromaffin cells of reptiles, the adrenaline synthesis can be influenced by an enhanced corticosteroid production. After ACTH administration the interrenal tissue appears intensely stimulted. At the same time the adrenaline cells of the dorsal ribbon are increased in number. The chromaffin ribbon, which normally contains a majority of noradrenaline cells, is often entirely constituted of adrenaline cells. Under the E.M. cells containing only one kind of granules are seen, as are intermediate cells containing both kinds of chromaffin granules. These observations suggest that all the chromaffin cells of Lacerta sicula possess phenylethanolamine-N-methyl transferase, the enzyme responsible for noradrenaline methylation, which is also activated in the cells of the outer layers of the adrenal ribbon when they are stimulated by high levels of corticosteroids.

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The morphology of the adrenal gland and relationships between noradrenalin (NA) and adrenalin (A) cells were studied in selected species of the genus Podarcis. As in other previously-studied genera, the morphology of the adrenal gland is not homogeneous, and the species examined can be divided into two groups according to the relationship between chromaffin and steroidogenic tissue. Podarcis taurica and P. hispanica, in which the two tissues are strongly separated, belong to one group. P. wagleriana, P. muralis, P. sicula, P. peloponnesiacus and P. melisellensis belong to a second group in which dorsal chromaffin ribbons send digitations between the steroidogenic cords. The NA/A cell ratio is higher in species of the first group than in those of the second.

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The somatotropic effects of ovine prolactin and bovine growth hormone (GH) were compared in juveniles of the lizard Lacerta sicula sicula. Both hormones stim- ulated a marked increase (up to 300%) in food consumption. This effect was asso- ciated with a pronounced increase in weight gain which involved some fattening and considerable linear growth: the relative amount of lean growth and fattening were the same with both hormones. GH was slightly more potent on a weight basis, but both were highly effective at a dose of 10 ,&day and some response was evident between 1 and 50 &g/day. Total lipid storage was the same under both hormone treatments but lipid dis- tributions in the body differed, especially with regard to the liver. GH promoted splanchnomegaly and lipid storage in the liver whereas prolactin decreased hepatic growth and lipid content. When the two hormones were given together, there was no synergism or additive effect with respect to total growth and the effects of pro- la&in on the liver were antagonized by the GH.

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Corticosterone (B) and testosterone (T) plasma levels and the effects of short (1-48 min) and long (6-192 hr) confinement stress during the various phases of the reproductive period of the male lizard, Podarcis sicula sicula, were studied; in addition, the in vitro effects of B on the T secretion by testis and adrenals were evaluated. Plasma B was highest during the mating phase and plasma T was highest during the aggressive phase. Confinement stress caused an increase of B plasma levels within 12 min of capture and a decrease in plasma T within 48 min of capture; B increase and T decrease continued for 48 hr, but, after 192 hr of confinement, the levels of these two steroids became similar to those found a few minutes after capture. The basal release of T by the testes and of B and T by adrenals mirrored the trends seen in the systemic circulation. In in vitro experiments B treatment decreased T by testis and adrenal tissue release in aggressive and mating phases. These data suggest that B could involved in the reproduction of P.s. sicula by acting on T synthesis to reduce aggressive behavior and allow breeding.

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The otoliths of embryos and young animals of the lizard Podarcis s. sicula were studied by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Two types of crystal that give different X-ray diffraction patterns were found in the membranous labyrinth of Podarcis. The crystals consist of calcite or aragonite and are easily distinguished by scanning electron microscopy because of their different morphology. The two calcium carbonate crystal forms are not mixed at random but are present in the embryo from the very beginning in specific sites. The endolymphatic sac contains aragonite crystals while the saccule contains calcite crystals adjacent to the wall, in addition to a preponderance of aragonite crystals. The utricle and lagena contain only calcite crystals. The presence of two crystal forms of calcium carbonate in the membranous labyrinth are discussed in terms of differing genetic and functional significance.

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During a short visit in Hyéres (South France) im Mai 2005 a pair of Podarcis sicula sicula could be observed at the garden center “Jardinerie du gros pin”. The small introduced populaion was first mentioned by BRUECKERS (2003).

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The immunohistochemical presence and the distribution pattern of four different molecular forms of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) were investigated in the brain of both sexes of the lizard, Podarcis s. sicula. Animals used in this study were collected in November and April, representing two different periods of the reproductive cycle. The antisera used were those raised against synthetic mammalian GnRH, chicken GnRH-I and II, and salmon GnRH. Strong immunoreaction was obtained for salmon, chicken-I, and chicken-II GnRHs, whereas a very weak reaction was seen for the mammalian form of GnRH. The distribution of immunoreactive-GnRH perikarya and fibers did not vary with the sex, the reproductive condition of the animals, or the antiserum used. Also, the intensity of immunoreaction with any one antiserum was quite similar in both periods of the year and in all brains examined. The immunoreactive perikarya was seen as two distinct groups, one in the mesencephalon and the other in the infundibulum. Immunoreactive fiber endings were seen in the telencephalon, the optic tectum, the anterior preoptic area, the median eminence, the central grey matter, the rhombencephalon, and the cerebellum. No immunoreactive perikarya were seen in the telencephalon or the anterior preoptic area.

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It is possible that the origin of Podarcis siculus, which was introduced to Turkey by humans, is based on two different source populations or that the samples introduced to different geographies may differ at the subspecies level. The rapid evolutionary processes observed in island species can similarly occur in introduced and isolated populations. In this study Tissues were taken from samples obtained from Zonguldak, Istanbul and Samsun. mtDNA gene sequences were obtained and combined with Podarcis siculus samples from sequences downloaded from Genbank. Phylogenetic analyzes and species delimitation analyzes were executed. Accordingly results, the specimens obtained from Turkey were grouped into two different haplotypes, similar to their geographic isolation. It has been observed that these groups are different resource groups. Species delimination analyzes show that the differentiation of these haplotypes may be at the subspecies level.

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Im Anschluß an die in der ersten Folge (1950) veröffentlichten Fälle von Reptilienbastarden werden weitere Bemerkungen über 33 Hybriden gemacht; davon betreffen 5 die Schildkröten und je 1 4 die Eidechsen und Schlangen. Nicht weniger als 14 sind Artbastarde, Die meisten von diesen zeigen einen intermediären Charakter. Es ist bemerkenswert, daß das „erytbronotus`-Merkmal bei Lacerta agilis sich offenbar dominant, das `concolor`-Merkmal bei Lacerta melisellensis fiumana und Lacerta s. sicula dagegen rezessiv vererbt. Eine besondere Beachtung verdient der hypothetische Bastard zwischen Lacerta a. agilis und v. viridis aus Maria Taferl in Niederösterreich sowie die gezogenen Bastarde zwischen Lacerta v. viridis und schreiberi. F1-Bastarde von Natrix n. natrix und n. persa sprechen für die Dominanz des Merkmals „gestreift`.

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The current paper reviews the current distribution of the Italian Wall Lizard (Podarcis siculus) in Turkey. A new locality at Güzelyalı Belediyesi Resort, south-west of Mudanya City in the country is reported.

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Variations in ovary weight and seasonal changes in plasma androgens, 17 beta-estradiol and progesterone have been studied during the reproductive cycle of female Podarcis s. sicula Raf. Adult female Podarcis were captured in the surroundings of Naples during the years 1988 and 1989. Ten lizards were sampled monthly (except in February, August, October and December). Ovaries and oviducts were submitted to morphological examination, and in the blood samples androgens, 17 beta-estradiol and progesterone were assessed by the radioimmunoassay (RIA) method. Ovary weight, expressed as the gonadosomatic index (GSI), presented two statistically significant peak values in April and June, related to the ovulatory waves observed in this study. Several shelled oocytes were also found in the oviducts in this period. Progesterone titers mirrored the modifications of GSI and a very significant correlation (p less than 0.001) between the two parameters can be ascertained. Androgens increased in early spring, peaked in April, and low levels of androgens were found in September and during the winter months. Estradiol titers reached the peak values in March, and, after a sharp decrease in April, remained high until the winter months. The results reported here substantiate the periovulatory changes of the three major gonadal steroids during the annual ovarian cycle of Podarcis s. sicula.

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The chromosome C-banding pattern has been studied in four lacertid species possessing the same karyotype. The results obtained show a remarkable interspecific variability both in the amount and distribution of C-banded heterochromatin. This leads us to the speculation that alleged conservativeness in their karyology is probably due to inadequate resolution by the conventional cytological techniques. Moreover, it has been hypothesized that these variations of the C-bands play an important role in the evolution of this saurian family.

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Abstract The wall lizard Podarcis sicula has been introduced in many locations outside its native range. Partial sequences from the 12S rDNA, that had proved diagnostic for the three main subspecies, were used to test specimens from marginal native and from intro duced American populations. The mitochondrial haplotype of a specimen from Apulia, traditionally ascribed to P. s. campestris, belongs to the P. s. sicula gene-pool. Specimens from a P. s. sicu la - P. s. campestris boundary area (southern Latium), with transi tional morphology but P. s. sicula-like ecology, show mitochondrial haplotypes clearly of the campestris type. The mitochondrial hap-lotypes of the American specimens (from Kansas and New York), that originated from captive stocks, were included in a P. s. campestris clade. A definitive assessment of the status of both na tive and introduced populations will require the use of nuclear markers.

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The karyology of various species from the family Lacertidae (Reptilia, Sauria) has been studied with conventional and C-banding techniques. The study shows that this family is not so conservative from a karyological viewpoint as considered till now. In fact a higher diploid number than that generally observed in most species of Lacertidae and supernumerary chromosomes have been observed in three of the species investigated. Moreover an evident interand intraspecific variability has been found in the C-banding pattern of the various species studied. The situation found in Podarcis sicula is particularly remarkable. Different C-banding patterns have been observed in three different subspecies and in two populations of the same subspecies. These variations do not show a well defined trend and their role in the evolution of lacertid lizards is discussed. The C-banding analysis evidences also the existence in two of the species studied of a female sex heteromorphism, in which the W chromosome has the same shape and size as the Z, but differs from it in being completely heterochromatic. This situation reminds that observed in some snakes and suggests that in lacertid lizards the evolution of sex chromosomes might have followed the same steps previously hypothesized for ophidians.

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Notes are given on a population of Lacerta sicula sicula Rafinesque, living on a camping site near Salerno, Italy.

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This study shows that in the liver of the oviparous lizard, Podarcis s. sicula, the estrogen receptor (ER) level increases during the reproductive period (spring) when vitellogenesis occurs. This phenomenon interested both unfilled and filled ER present in the cytosolic and nuclear fractions. The increase in unfilled cytosolic and filled nuclear receptor was positively correlated to the plasma level of vitellogenin. The level of liver ER approximated that of mammalian liver ER and, therefore, it is higher than that reported for the liver of several nonmammalian species. At electrofocusing, liver ER distributes in two pH ranges (pH 6.5-7.5 and 8.0-8.8, respectively). The first form predominated in nuclei of reproductive females or of spayed estrogenized females and could represent the activated form of receptor. Ovariectomy was followed by a decrease in liver ER which can be induced in spayed females by estradiol administration. Pituitary growth hormone (GH) seemed to exert a synergic effect on estradiol liver estrogen receptor regulation. In lizards treated both with estradiol and GH, in fact, there was a significant increase in nuclear filled ER rather than an increase in the level of total nuclear ER.

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In male Podarcis s. sicula plasma, a sex steroid binding protein [SSBP(s)] binds testosterone (T) and estradiol-17 beta (E2) with moderate affinity (Kd = 0.23 +/- 0.08 x 10(-8) for 3H-E2, and 0.24 +/- 0.07 x 10(-8) for 3H-T) and high capacity. The SSBP binding affinity is unchanged throughout the sexual cycle, although its capacity is higher in nonreproductive males (winter and postreproductive period). This change may be related to changes in plasma T and E2 levels, and is likely to be involved in mechanisms whereby free steroid is delivered to target organs. SSBP, under isoelectrofocusing, is distributed between pH 5.5-6.5 and pH 7.1-7.5. The concentration of these two forms varies during the annual cycle.

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Labelled testosterone- and oestradiol-binding molecules have been found in the cytosol and nuclei of lizard testes. DNA-cellulose affinity chromatography was used to separate putative sex-steroid-binding receptors (adhering molecules) and nonreceptor components (nonadhering molecules). A putative androgen receptor (Kd: 10(-10) mol l-1; 3-9 fmol g-1 tissue) was found mainly in the nuclei of testicular cells when actively undergoing spermatogenesis. This suggests that, as in higher vertebrates, testosterone is implicated in spermatogenetic step regulation (meiosis and spermiogenesis) in lizard testis. In the cytosol, testosterone-binding molecules (Kd: 10(-9) mol l-1; 384-784 fmol g-1 tissue) with several properties of androgen-binding proteins are present from autumn to spring. The behaviour of these molecules is consistent with the role assigned to androgen-binding proteins as androgen reservoir. A putative oestrogen receptor is present throughout the sexual cycle, except during the culmination phase (breeding). The putative oestrogen receptor may be involved in the regulation of the first spermatogenetic step (spermatogonia multiplication) and in the induction of post-reproductive refractoriness. This phase is present in temperate-zone lizards. These studies show that the evaluation of sex-steroid-binding molecules is useful in considering the relationships between sex hormones and spermatogenetic activity in the testes of lizards

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The AA. have studied the morphocytochemistry of the blood cells and the hemopoiesis, on smears of circulating blood and bone marrow and on imprints of spleen of the common lizard [Podarcis s. sicula Raf.). The results are: in circulating blood, lymphocytes, plasmocytes, monocytes, neutrophilic granulotypes 1 and 2, eosinophilic granulocytes and thrombocytes are present; they show each its own morphological and cytochemical characteristics and do no present intermediate stages. Erythropoiesis occurs in bone marrow (but erythroblasts pass into circulating blood). From the cytophotometrical measures of DNA amount, performed on red cells, resulted that the percentage of duplicating cells decrease with the decreasing of the size of erythroblasts and therefore according to their maturation. In two specimens in which tail was cut to stimulate hemopoiesis, anaemia and increase of erythroblasts, both in peripheral blood and in bone marrow, were observed after 9-15 days since the tail cut. Granulocytopoiesis occurs in bone marrow through the stages of myeloblasts, promyelocytes and myelocytes. Lymphocytopoiesis occurs in spleen through the same stages of the other Vertebrates. Highest values of Hb, Ht, number of blood cells and hemopoiesis were observed in spring, while the lowest ones were observed in autumn and winter.

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In a phylogeographical survey of the Italian wall lizard, Podarcis sicula , DNA sequence variation along an 887-bp segment of the cytochrome b gene was examined in 96 specimens from 86 localities covering the distribution range of the species. In addition, parts of the 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA genes from 12 selected specimens as representatives of more divergent cytochrome b haploclades were sequenced (together about 950 bp). Six phylogeographical main groups were found, three representing samples of the nominate subspecies Podarcis sicula sicula and closely related subspecies and the other three comprising Podarcis sicula campestris as well as all subspecies described from northern and eastern Adriatic islands. In southern Italy a population group with morphological characters of P. s. sicula but with the mitochondrial DNA features of P. s. campestris was detected indicating a probably recent hybridization zone. The present distribution patterns were interpreted as the consequence of natural events like retreats to glacial refuges and postglacial area expansions, but also as the results of multiple introductions by man.

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The endocrine pancreas of Podarcis s. sicula Raf. was investigated at light and electron microscopic levels using immunocytochemical methods. It was constituted by endocrine islets, which were concentrated more in the splenic than in the duodenal region, and never formed large clusters. At the light and electron microscope, with the peroxidase-antiperoxidase reaction (PAP) and the colloidal gold technique, four cell types were identified: glucagon-positive A-cells, insulin-positive B-cells, somatostatin-positive D-cells and pancreatic polypeptide-positive F- or PP-cells. F- or PP-cells showed a different regional distribution, being absent or very rare in the splenic lobe of the pancreas and numerous in the duodenal lobe, where they were seldom found in the islets, but were scattered in the exocrine parenchyma. The functional meaning of F-cells is discussed. The E.M. observations were carried out at the CIRUB (Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca sulle Ultrastrutture Biologiche) of the University of Naples.

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In the lizard Podarcis s. sicula, a substantial amount of -aspartate (-Asp) is endogenous to the testis and shows cyclic changes of activity connected with sex hormone profiles during the annual reproductive phases. Testicular -Asp content shows a direct correlation with testosterone titres and a reverse correlation with 17
-estradiol titres. In vivo experiments, consisting of i.p. injections of 2·0 μmol/g body weight of -Asp or other amino acids, in lizards collected during the three main phases of the reproductive cycle (pre-reproductive, reproductive and post-reproductive period), revealed that the testis can specifically take up and accumulate -Asp alone. Moreover, this amino acid influences the synthesis of testosterone and 17
-estradiol in all phases of the cycle. This phenomenon is particularly evident during the pre- and post-reproductive period, when endogenous testosterone levels observed in both testis and plasma were the lowest and 17
-estradiol concentrations were the highest. -Asp rapidly induces a fall in 17
-estradiol and a rise in testosterone at 3 h post-injection in the testis and at 6 h post-injection in the blood. In vitro experiments show that testicular tissue converted -Asp into -Asp through an aspartate racemase. -Asp synthesis was measured in all phases of the cycle, but was significantly higher during the reproductive period with a peak at pH 6·0. The exogenous -Asp also induces a significant increase in the mitotic activity of the testis at 3 h (P<0·05) and at 6 h (P<0·01). Induction of spermatogenesis by -Asp is recognized by an intense immunoreactivity of the germinal epithelium (spermatogonia and spermatids) for proliferation cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). The effects of -Asp on the testis appear to be specific since they were not seen in lizards injected with other - or -forms of amino acids with known excitatory effects on neurosecretion. Our results suggest a regulatory role for -Asp in the steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis of the testis of the lizard Podarcis s. sicula.

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Exotic animal invasions constitute a major threat to biodiversity worldwide. Our assessment determined the core range occupied by the Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) in the urban area of Parque das Nações (Lisbon, Portugal), where it was accidentally introduced two decades ago. Despite the apparent current scenario of non-expansion, the alien species interferes with the local distribution pattern of the native P. virescens, with both lizard species shown to use the available microhabitats differently. The native P. virescens population displays an overall heterogeneous distribution in the urban matrix. On the other hand, the occupancy of the exotic species clusters within the original area of introduction (garden in front of the Lisbon Oceanarium), as well as in adjacent gardens. There, P. siculus replaced the native P. virescens as the only lizard species present. Apparently, there is no known reason there that prevents the alien lizard from colonizing more available geographic area and expanding.

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Mate choice with regard to genetic similarity has been rarely considered as a dynamic process. We examined this possibility in breeding populations of the common lizard (Lacerta vivipara) kept for several years in semi-natural conditions. We investigated whether they displayed a pattern of mate choice according to the genetic similarity and whether it was context-dependent. Mate choice depended on genetic similarity with the partner and also on age and condition. There was no systematic avoidance of inbreeding. Females of intermediate ages, more monogamous, did not mate with genetically similar partners, whereas younger and older females, more polyandrous, did but highest clutch proportions were associated with intermediate values of pair-relatedness. These results indicate dynamic mate choice, suggesting that individuals of different phenotypes select their partners in different ways according to their genetic similarity. We consider our results in the light of diverse and apparently contradictory theories concerning genetic compatibility, and particularly, optimal inbreeding and inclusive fitness.

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The link between ecology and economies is manifest over the umrld as a result of long-term processes. But because these processes are long term, it is bard to prove the link. On Sardinia serious economic development was late to arrive, having occurred only over the last few decades. As a case study, research was carried out for 10 years on the state of nature as well as the economic growth in one of the least developed areas abutting the Gulf of Orosei on the east coast Based on research and lasting attention to political affairs concerning the projecg we formulate general recommendations for the area In 1995, the Italian Government will he asked by the European Government to undertake serious steps to save endemics (especially herpetofauna) of Europe`s last pristine areas.

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High concentrations of free D-aspartate (D-Asp), an amino acid well known for its neuroexcitatory activity, are endogeneously present in the Harderian gland (HG) of the lizard Podarcis s. sicula. This orbital gland consists of two different parts: the medial part, which is prevalently a mucous acinar gland, and the lateral part, which is a serous tubulo-acinar gland. To determine the physiological effect of D-Asp on exocrine secretion in HG, D-Asp (2.0 micromol/g b.w.) was injected intraperitoneally into lizards. We found that highest accumulations of exogenous D-Asp in HGs occurred 15 hr after the injection. Specifically, exogenous D-Asp prevalently stimulated serous secretion from the lateral portion of the gland, where immunohistochemical analysis revealed a major accumulation. Similarly, in the medial part of the gland, highly sulfated mucosubstances were observed after D-Asp injection. Further, in both parts of the HG, the electron microscope revealed euchromatic nuclei, a prominent rough endoplasmic reticulum, as well as numerous secretory granules within the acinar cells. Thus, following D-Asp injection, a 60% increase in HG total protein was detected. In addition, exogenous D-Asp induced changes in the electrophoretic pattern of HG. In conclusion, although further investigations are still needed to clarify the molecular pathway induced by D-Asp in exocrine secretion, this study does indicate that free D-Asp plays a significant role in the secretory activity of this gland.

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In recent years, great attention has been paid to many Podarcis species for which the observed intra-specific variability often revealed species complexes still characterized by an unresolved relationship. When compared to other species, P. siculus underwent fewer revisions and the number of species hidden within this taxon may have been, therefore, underestimated. However, recent studies based on genetic and morphological data highlighted a marked differentiation of the populations inhabiting the western Pontine Archipelago. In the present work we used published genetic data (three mitochondrial and three nuclear gene fragments) from 25 Podarcis species to provide a multilocus phylogeny of the genus in order to understand the degree of differentiation of the western Pontine populations. In addition, we analyzed new morphometric traits (scale counts) of 151 specimens from the main islands of the Pontine Archipelago. The phylogenetic analysis revealed five principal Podarcis groups with biogeographic consistency. The genetic distinctiveness of the Podarcis populations of the western Pontine Islands is similar or even more ancient than those observed in numerous other pairs of Podarcis sister species. In the light of these evidences we raise the western Pontine lizards to specific rank; thus they should be referred to as Podarcis latastei.

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The Italian wall lizard (Podarcis siculus) originated throughout Italian mainland and later introduced to some other countries including Turkey. New localities were recorded from Bolu province and from Balıkesir province as southernmost records for Podarcis siculus known to date in Turkey. The specimen in Bolu province was photographed directly by the author, while the other specimen’s observation in Balıkesir was taken from the iNaturalist database. These two new records significantly extend the distribution area of the species in Turkey southwards. It is presumed that the Filyos River surroundings are suitable for the distribution of the species. The distribution of Podarcis siculus is significantly wider than currently known.

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In this study, we describe 13 Lacerta sicula hieroglyphica collected from the centre of Bursa and Çak›rca, a village about 10 km west of Iznik. The specimens, including their habitat characteristics and distribution, are described. This subspecies is known to live on islands in the Marmara Sea and in Istanbul. This is the first report of L. s. hieroglyphica from Bursa and Çak›rca village and therefore its distributional range is being extended to the south of the Marmara Sea.

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Salamandra salamandra gigliolii Eiselt & Lanza, 1956 is reported with certainty for the first time in Central Tuscany (Chianti Mountains, Florence and Castelnuovo di Val de Cecina, Pisa). Triturus alpestris apuanus (Bonaparte, 1839), previously reported by Lanza (1977) in Lucolena (Greve in Chianti, Florence), is confirmed in this and two other localities of Chianti Mountains (vicinity of Lamole, Flornce and of Badia di Coltibuono, Siena). It also inhabits the small lake at Eremo di Camaldoli (Arezzo; 43°48´23”N – 11°49´11”E), making this the southernmost record of this species for the Apennine main chain. The three southernmost localities for Triturus vulgaris meridionalis (Boulenger, 1882) are Lago d´Averno (40°50´ N – 14!04´ E), Lageo di Patria (40°56´ N – 14°02´ E) [Bruno (1973b)] and Cicciano (40°58´ N – 14°32` E), 35 km NE of Naples. Rana catesbeiana Shaw, 1802 has surely acclimatized in the plain between Florence and Pistoia, as proved by the recent discovery of tadpoles and juveniles. Rana latastei Boulenger, 1879, cited by Capula (1980) as new to the Emilian plain, had been reported by Del Prato (1899) in the Emilian localities of Borgo Val di Taro and San Vitale de Baganza (Parma). While the species from Borgo Val di Taro could instead be Rana graeca Boulenger, 1891, the same is not true for this from San Vitale di Baganza, which is also mentioned by Pozzi (1980). Phyllodactylus europaeus Gené, 1839 occurs at «Multaragna», on the SW slope of Monte Limbara (Sardinia; about 980 m a.s.l.), the highest confirmed locality for this species, which is also reported for the first time in Ruia Island, N of Cape Comino (SE Sardinia). Also given are additions and corrections to the data reported on this geckonid by Vanni & Lanza (1978). Both Podarcis sicula caporiaccoi (Taddei, 1949) from Capraia Island (Tuscan Archipelago) and Podarcis sicula cettii (Cara, 1872) from Tavolara Island (SE Sardinia) exhibit a rare definite presence of the phenotype “concolor”. A description is given of Podarcis sicula (Rafinesque, 1810) from La Praiola Islet, located directly W of Capraia Island (Tuscan Archipelago), it can be referred to Podarcis sicula caporiaccoi (Taddei, 1949) despite the fact that it differs slightly from the population of the type locality. Coronella girondica Daudin, 1803 is reported for the first time in Friuli-Venezia Giulia (Chialina, near Ovaro, in the province of Udine), making this the easternmost record of this species in continental Italy. Vipera aspis heinzdischeki Sochurek, 1879 (type locality: Monte del Papa, near Lagonegro, in Basilicata) is considered as synonymous of Vipera aspis hugyi Schinz, 1833.

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During a city trip to Rome from 12.08.-16.08.2010, some herpetological observations could be made. In addition to the lacertid lizards Podarcis siculus siculus and Podarcis muralis nigriventris some specimens of the Moorish Gecko (Tarentola mauritanica) as well as an individual of the Aesculapian snake (Zamenis longissimus) were found.

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Es wird über die Entdeckung einer kleinen Population von Podarcis siculus siculus auf einer winzigen namenlosen Insel in der Bucht von Es Grau im Osten Menorcas berichtet. Überraschenderweise stürzte sich eine der Eidechsen auf eine ausgelegte Pflaume.