Effects of constant versus fluctuating incubation temperatures on hatching success, incubation length, and hatchling morphology in the Chinese skink (Plestiodon chinensis)
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Published source details
Shen W., Pei J., Lin L. & Ji X. (2017) Effects of constant versus fluctuating incubation temperatures on hatching success, incubation length, and hatchling morphology in the Chinese skink (Plestiodon chinensis). Asian Herpetological Research, 8, 262-268.
Published source details Shen W., Pei J., Lin L. & Ji X. (2017) Effects of constant versus fluctuating incubation temperatures on hatching success, incubation length, and hatchling morphology in the Chinese skink (Plestiodon chinensis). Asian Herpetological Research, 8, 262-268.
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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, randomized study in 2010–2011 in laboratory conditions in Zhejiang province, China (Shen et al. 2017) found that most eggs laid in captivity by wild Chinese skinks Plestiodon chinensis and artificially incubated hatched successfully, and hatching success was not affected by incubation temperature. Overall hatching success was 86% (837 of 972 eggs) and was similar at all incubation temperatures (83–86%). In addition, incubation period decreased at higher temperatures (40 days at 24°C vs 19 days at 32°C). In 2010–2011, seventy-two gravid females were brought into captivity and housed in groups of 5–8 in enclosures (1.5 x 1.5 x 0.6 m) with a turf-covered substrate. A total of 972 viable eggs were collected and placed in individual plastic jars (50 ml) with moist vermiculite (-12 kPa). Clutches of eggs were divided between five constant temperature treatments (24, 26, 28, 30 or 32°C) or one fluctuating treatment (incubated outside). After laying, adult females were re-released at their point of capture.
(Summarised by: William Morgan)
