A study on reproductive specialization of many lined Sun Skink (Mabuya multifasciata) Dutta Uma1,*, Medhi Nabanita2 1Department of Zoology, Cotton College, Guwahati, India 2Department of Zoology, Gauhati University, Guwahati, India *Corresponding author: umadutta@yahoo.com
Online published on 5 April, 2012. Abstract The scincid lizard Mabuya multifasciata contributes its part to the biodiversity of North-Eastern region of India. However, its distribution, diversity and reproductive behaviour is least reported in this part of country. Studies on reproductive pattern is fundamental point for the conservation of the species, population studies and also for the balance of entire ecosystem. Therefore, the present study has been designed with an objective to evaluate the specificity of female reproductive organs in Mabuya multifasciata, ifany, by assessment of histological architecture of reproductive organs and embryonic nutritional pattern during breeding period. The study was carried out during March-May of a year. Following routine technique the histological structure of the ovary and the oviduct had been attempted. Ovarian histology reflected various stages of follicular development. Ovary of gravid female showed vitellogenic follicle. Villi like infoldings were found to be projected into oviduct lumen, which may probably helpful in propelling the egg through oviduct. Histology of uterine oviduct in gravid female showed placental structure, which may lead to placentotrophy. The presence of yolk sac with direct connection to the developing embryos has established the occurrence of lecithotrophy. Therefore, M. multifasciata can be stated as a lecitho cum placentotrophic viviparous species, or an intermediate species, which may represents a link between both oviparous and viviparous form. Top Keywords Mabuya multifasciata, Ovary, Lecithotrophy, Placentotrophy. Top |