Reproductive cycle of the Namib giant ground gecko, <i>Chondrodactylus angulifer</i> (Squamata: Gekkonidae)

Abstract

The reproductive cycle of the Namib giant ground gecko, Chondrodactylus angulifer,  from southern Africa was described from a histological examination of gonadal material from museum specimens. Males followed a seasonal testicular cycle in  which (based on available specimens) the major period of spermiogenesis occurred between September and December. The onset of spermiogenesis is not known as  specimens from May to  August were not available. Testes in regression were found in January, February and
March. Testes in recrudescence were found in January, February, March and April. Females with enlarged ovarian follicles (>5mmlength) were found in January/February and September to December. Mean clutch size for 36 females was 1.7 ± 0.47 S.D., range: 1–2. Evidence is presented that more than one clutch may be produced in the same reproductive season.

Key words Chondrodactylus angulifer, Namib giant ground gecko, Gekkonidae, reproductive cycle.