FEMALE FECUNDITY IN A HYBRID ZONE BETWEEN TWO CHROMOSOME RACES OF THE SCELOPORUS GRAMMICUS COMPLEX (SAURIA, PHRYNOSOMATIDAE)

Abstract

Individuals of the F5 and FM2 cytotypes of the Sceloporus grammicus complex form a narrow zone of parapatric hybridization near Tulancingo, Hidalgo, Mexico. Reproductive parameters were examined among chromosomally parental and hybrid females to assess the degree to which reduced clutch size is correlated with the level of chromosomal heterozygosity. Although clutch size in the two parental groups was highly correlated with female body size, this was not the case for females with intermediate karyotypes. These females displayed increased levels of infertility manifested as smaller clutches and as inviable embryos. F₁ females produced the smallest average clutches and suffered the most precipitous fecundity loss (up to 75%). The number of heterozygous marker chromosomes and heterozygosity at chromosome 2 had significant effects on the number of viable embryos. Analysis of embryo karyotypes revealed the production of triploid offspring and an excess number of embryos heterozygous at chromosome 1. Differences in viability, among females heterozygous for the same number of chromosomes, suggest that genetic background of the female and/or sire may be an important factor in determining reproductive success.

Keywords: Chromosomal heterozygosity; Sceloporus grammicus; fecundity; fitness loss; hybrid zone.