Population size in Microlophus quadrivittatus (Tschudi 1845) (Reptilia: Squamata: Tropiduridae) in the coast of Iquique, Chile: ontogenetic, temporary, and environmental, differences

Abstract

Population numbers of Microlophus quadrivittatus are provided on the coast of Iquique, Chile, in five sectors with different availability of microhabitats, with monthly sampling between July 2008 and December 2011. There are large numerical oscillations (without interannual changes and with high variation in each sample) for the total populations, as well as for each age group (juveniles, subadults, adults). Considering the age proportions, there are seasonal variations, with juveniles dominating the population in winter to decrease in spring, in the opposite of adults. Population differences exist depending on the availability of microhabitats: while adults dominate in rocky sectors, juveniles are more abundant on sandy beaches. The importance of medium-term demographic studies of reptiles is highlighted, as well as their application in environmental studies and wildlife management.