Variation in populations of Yarrow's spiny lizard, Sceloporus jarrovii, in the northern Madrean Archipelago region

Abstract

Population genetic analysis of Yarrow’s spiny lizard, Sceloporus jarrovii, suggests a metapopulational distribution pattern with potential divergence of genetically based traits. Comparing male pushup displays revealed populations east and west of the San Pedro River valley to be more similar among themselves than to those on the other side. Intensive studies of a single population revealed high site fidelity and movement constrained by the availability of crevices suitable for over-wintering and habitat with suitable thermal and humidity ranges. Observations suggest a species that does not disperse over large distances, and that current distribution patterns arose during extended Pleistocene pluvial periods.

Parent Publication

• Connecting mountain islands and desert seas: Biodiversity and management of the Madrean Archipelago II

Citation

Middendorf, George; Frankel, Jack; Ruby, Douglas. 2005. Variation in populations of Yarrow''s spiny lizard, Sceloporus jarrovii, in the northern Madrean Archipelago region. In: Gottfried, Gerald J.; Gebow, Brooke S.; Eskew, Lane G.; Edminster, Carleton B., comps. Connecting mountain islands and desert seas: biodiversity and management of the Madrean Archipelago II. Proc. RMRS-P-36. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station: 100-105