Egg characteristics of a spur-thighed tortoise, Testudo graeca, Linnaeus, 1758 population in Cappadocia, Central Anatolia

Abstract

We investigated egg characteristics of a Testudo graeca population in Nevsehir, Cappadocia in the Central Anatolia during 2013-2015 by traversing line transects to locate nesting females between May and July. Clutch size averaged 2.33 (range: 1-8) with elliptical, spherical or oval albescent eggs. The mean egg shape index (SI) ± SD and volume ± SD were 1.13±0.02 and 18.46±0.78 cm3, respectively. Mean SCL (Straight Carapace Length) and mass were 207.48 mm (range: 187.03-240.10 mm) and 1863.10 g (range: 1340-2601 g), respectively. The mean REM (Relative Egg Mass), RCM (Relative Clutch Mass), REL (Relative Egg Length), and REW (Relative Egg Width) were calculated as 1.04%, 2.42%, 17.24% and 15.18%, respectively. There was a positive correlation between female size (SCL) and egg width, volume, and mass; a negative correlation between female size (SCL) and clutch size; and a positive correlation between egg mass, and width and volume. These data extend our knowledge about egg characteristics of Testudo graeca. Testudo graeca is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, so it is crucial to obtain information on reproductive data for developing conservation measures. © 2019, Societas Europaea Herpetologica. All rights reserved.