Determination of age and some growth parameters in Anatololacerta danfordi (Günther, 1876) populations from north of Adana province

The body size was measured and the age was determined by using skeletochronology in two different populations of Anatololacerta danfordi which is endemic for Turkey. Age was determined individually by counting the number of resting lines (LAG) in cross-sections taken from the phalanges. Single or double (estivation and hibernation) lines of arrested growth (LAG) and endosteal resorption were observed in the cross sections. Body size (SVL) was ranged from 44.62 to 68.06 mm for males and from 43.66 to 62.36mm for females. Size distributions between populations were similar. Males were bigger than females in Saimbeyli population. The youngest individuals were determined as 3 or 5 years old for females and 4 or 5 years old for males. Maximum age or longevity was ranged between 8-11 years for females and 9-13 years for females. Female individuals of Kozan population were older than Saimbeyli. Age distributions of males were similar between two populations. When all individuals were taken into account, Kozan population was found to be older than Saimbeyli. A positive and significant relationship between age and body size, and male biased sexual dimorphism were determined in both populations. It is difficult to say the reasons of differences between the life history characteristics of populations. More researches on this species are needed.