Estudios autecológicos en Pristidactylus cf. valeriae (Squamata, Polychridae) de Chile central

Abstract

An autecological study of Pristidactylus cf. valeriae has been carried out in central Chile. We considered diel activity, microhabitat selection, and food habits. For these ecological traits we calculate diversity of use, with the Levin's index. Besides, we recorded perch height, critical distance of flight and body temperature, associated with both, air and substrate temperature. We add a morphological study, and comparisons with other Pristidactylus species are made, using Euclidean distance and UPGMA strategy of clustering. Karyotype of the species is given. Normal Giemsa staining and C-Band tecniques were used. Results show this species as a rock-dweller, with a monomodal diel activity; it appears as a beetle-eater, however these trends are discussed. Body temperature is not different tan those reported in the literature for other species in the genus. Perch height does not appear different among males, females and juveniles, but the data suggest the males could have a territorial behavior, performing displays which include aggressiveness and sounds.