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Distribution modelling usually makes inferences correlating species presence and environmental variables but does not take biotic relations into account. Alternative approaches based on a mechanistic understanding of biological processes are now being applied. Regarding lacertid lizards, physiological traits such as preferred body temperature (Tp) are well known to correlate with several physiological optima. Much less is known about their water ecology although body temperature and evaporative water loss (Wl) may trade-off. Two saxicolous lacertids, Algyroides marchi and Podarcis hispanica ss are sympatric in the Subbetic Mountains (SE Spain) were they can be found in syntopy. Previous distribution modelling indicates the first species is associated with mountains, low temperatures; high precipitation and forest cover whereas the second one is more generalistic. Here, we perform two ecophysiological tests with both species: a Tp experiment in thermal gradient and a Wl experiment in sealed chambers. Although both species attained similar body temperatures, A. marchi lost more water and more uniformly in time than P. hispanica ss that displayed an apparent response to dehydration. These results suggest that water loss rather temperature is crucial to explain the distribution patterns of A. marchi in relation to P. hispanica ss, the former risking dehydration in dry areas no matter what temperature is. Ecophysiological traits represent a promising tool to build future mechanistic models for (lacertid) lizards. Additionally, the implications for their biogeography and conservation are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tail tip removal is a common method for obtaining tissue samples for genetics and other studies on lizards. This study evaluates the effect of tail tip autotomy on microhabitat selection in the lacertid Podarcis bocagei. Different-length tail fragments were experimentally removed from lizards of a small population. Forcing lizards to autotomise small tail tips (<1 cm) did not affect microhabitat selection. In contrast, a significant negative effect was observed in those lizards which underwent induced autotomy of the entire tail (> 5 cm). After autotomy these lizards were observed to favour more closed habitats, where predator avoidance is expected to be more efficient, although of potentially lower thermal quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present two new types of noose for capturing herps, which allow adapting the size of the loop to the size of prey rapidly. We use a plastic ring to make the loop: the thread moves perfectly without any impediment or friction, and remains in good conditions for a longer time. The plastic ring can be made during fieldwork. Both new types of noose increase capture effectiveness, as it is possible to noose different types of preys with a simple and rapid adaptation of the loop. We have tested this methodology in different species of lacertids, some snakes under rocks, and also some amphibians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]