Reproductive phenology and exposure to hematophagous mites in two Mediterranean lizards

Abstract

Life history theory postulates that the energy available to individuals is finite and that it is adaptive to prioritize those vital processes that allow biological efficiency to be maximized. Reproduction is the fundamental piece of this theory, since through its direct action individuals leave offspring and therefore reproducing is a priority over any other vital process. However, it is energetically very demanding and can produce costs in other important processes that are also energetically demanding; for example, the maintenance of the immune system and other antiparasitic mechanisms. We have tested this hypothesis by analyzing the correlation between the phenological patterns of investment in reproduction of two lizard species with different ecological habits and the seasonal variation in the number of mites that parasitize them. Some interspecific discrepancies were found in the phenological patterns of parasitization, where the species that prefers wetter microhabitats (Psammodromus algirus) had a higher prevalence and number of mites and these increased from April to July. Additionally, gravid females of the species that prefers drier environments (Acanthodactylus erythrurus) had as many mites as the first species, suggesting that they might select wetter locations during egg formation. However, there was no significant relationship between seasonal variation in the number of mites and reproductive phenology in males. Therefore, it is unlikely that investment in reproduction increases susceptibility to mites in these two lizard species.