The crested newt (triturus carnifex) in the submediterranean: Reproductive biology, body size, and age

Abstract

The annual reproductive cycle of both sexes of Triturus carnifex from the Submediterranean was analysed, as well as complex relationships between fecundity, body size, and age. Highly significant seasonal variations in snout-vent length-adjusted gonads, fat bodies, and liver weight were found in both sexes. Variations in cycle due to geographic location and climate were recorded. Newts exhibited extended residence in water and lengthening of breeding period. Body size was significantly correlated with age in males, contrary to females. All organ weights were significantly correlated to body size, except for fat body weight in females. In both sexes, fecundity parameters showed a highly significant effect of season, while the effect of age was insignificant (testes weight and total number of oocytes) or barely significant (ovaries weight). © 1996 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.