INTERRELATION OF FAT BODY MASS, LIVER MASS, AND ENVIRONMENTAL PARAMETERS ON THE REPRODUCTIVE CYCLE OF THE BROWN ANOLE (ANOLIS SAGREI), AN INTRODUCED LIZARD IN TAIWAN

Reproductive cycle studies are essential because the reproductive biology of a species is a crucial aspect of its natural history. In lizards, stored lipids often provide the energy required for reproduction, and the liver usually plays a vital part in lipid metabolism and storage, so the examinations of the lipid and liver cycles are often important parts of lizard reproductive cycle studies. To develop a better understanding of the interrelation of the fat body mass, liver mass, and environmental parameters on the reproductive cycle of Brown Anoles (Anolis sagrei) in Santzepu, Sheishan District, Chiayi County, southwestern Taiwan, we collected 215 male and 204 female specimens in 13 mo. We measured and dissected the lizards to examine the interrelation of the fat body mass, liver mass, and environmental parameters on the reproductive cycle of this exotic invasive species in Taiwan. Our results provide additional support for the conclusion that photoperiods and the associated temperatures determine the reproductive cycles in A. sagrei. It also demonstrated that A. sagrei most likely combines stored energy and recently acquired nutrients to fuel reproduction, and although reproduction in this species is energetically demanding for both sexes, this species can be highly fecund in areas where suitable prey is abundant.