Title

The Reproductive-Biology Of The Female Loggerhead Musk Turtle, Sternotherus-Minor-Minor, From The Southern Part Of Its Range In Central Florida

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Abbreviated Journal Title

Herpetologica

Keywords

Zoology

Abstract

Previous reports of loggerhead musk turtle (Sternotherus minor) reproduction have not attempted to control for variation in latitude, local population differences, and annual variation. This study attempts to control for these variables by analyzing turtles from one population (at the southern edge of its range) for one reproductive season. Female musk turtles mature after 6 yr and at approximately 60 mm plastron length. Vitellogenesis begins in mid-September and the first clutch is laid in late October. Oviposition continues until mid-June when follicular regression begins. A brief but distinct ovarian quiescent period is evident in August. Mean clutch size is 3.0 (range = 1-5; mode = 3). Four clutches per year are common and some females probably produce five. Similarities with previously studied populations of S. minor include timing of the reproductive cycle, mean female size, and size and age at maturity. Mean clutch size in S. minor in Central Florida is significantly larger than elsewhere. This difference is explained by more females producing three eggs. Annual reproductive potential is enhanced in the Central Florida population, presumably due to greater resource availability.

Journal Title

Herpetologica

Volume

43

Issue/Number

1

Publication Date

1-1-1987

Document Type

Article

Language

English

First Page

66

Last Page

73

WOS Identifier

WOS:A1987G467900007

ISSN

0018-0831

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