Influence of fluctuating incubation temperatures on hatchling traits in a Chinese skink, Eumeces chinensis
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Published source details
Du W.G., Shou L., Shen J.Y. & Lu Y.W. (2005) Influence of fluctuating incubation temperatures on hatchling traits in a Chinese skink, Eumeces chinensis. The Herpetological Journal, 15, 139-142.
Published source details Du W.G., Shou L., Shen J.Y. & Lu Y.W. (2005) Influence of fluctuating incubation temperatures on hatchling traits in a Chinese skink, Eumeces chinensis. The Herpetological Journal, 15, 139-142.
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This study is summarised as evidence for the following.
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Relocate nests/eggs for artificial incubation: Lizards Action Link |
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Relocate nests/eggs for artificial incubation: Lizards
A replicated study in 2003 in an artificial setting in Zhejiang, China (Du et al. 2005) found that the hatching success of eggs and hatchling size from a species of Chinese skink Eumeces chinensis relocated for artificial incubation was not affected by fluctuations in incubation temperatures. At an average temperature of 27°C, hatching success was similar for eggs when incubation temperatures fluctuated by 3°C (12 of 15, 80%) or by 7°C (19 of 22, 86%). A range of hatchling traits, including size, weight and sprint speed were also similar when incubation temperatures fluctuated by 3°C or 7°C (see paper for details). In 2003, four gravid female skinks were brought into captivity and housed in an enclosure (110 x 90 x 50 cm) until they laid their eggs. Eggs were removed and clutches were split evenly between two incubation treatments: average temperature of 27°C with 3°C fluctuations (15 eggs); or average temperature of 27°C with 7°C fluctuations (22 eggs). Temperatures fluctuated gradually over a 24 h period. Hatching success was assessed and hatchling traits were measured (see paper for details).
(Summarised by: William Morgan)
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