Insights on the reproductive biology of Oxyrhopus petolarius (Linnaeus, 1758) (Dipsadidae: Pseudoboini) from Southeastern Brazil

Abstract

Reproductive biology in snakes can exhibit various forms, ranging from highly seasonal to aseasonal patterns, as well as asynchronous or synchronous behaviors between males and females. Understanding these aspects is a crucial step in comprehending an organism’s life history and the evolutionary biology of the species, as it is vital for species conservation. In this study, we examined the reproductive aspects of Oxyrhopus petolarius (Linnaeus, 1758) using morphometric and histological data. We observed that females exhibit larger body sizes than males, resulting in Sexual Size Dimorphism (SSD) of 0.41. Females seem to follow a discontinuous reproductive cycle, exhibiting a reproductive period during the rainy season. On the other hand, males exhibit a continuous cycle, with heightened testicular development during the dry season.