Energy Allocation after Caudal Autotomy in the Great Plains Skink, Plestiodon Obsoletus

Abstract

Caudal autotomy is a common anti-predatory defense among certain species of reptiles, amphibians, and mice. Studies have investigated the consequences of caudal autotomy in reference to locomotion and reproduction, but few studies have focused on how other factors may influence the regrowth of the tail. This study investigated caudal autotomy in the Great Plains skink, Plestiodon obsoletus, and how diet influenced energy allocation after caudal autotomy. Skinks were divided into size classes, three skinks per class with no greater than three mm difference in snout to vent length, and then divided into three treatment groups; fed crickets daily, fed crickets every other day, and a daily diet alternating between crickets and mealworm larvae. After the nine week study period, I found that diet and size class were not significant factors for tail regrowth, but diet and size class had a significant impact on the mass gained. A comparison of the three smallest and largest size classes for snout to vent length was significant for length gained, but could have been attributed to normal somatic growth. Mass was gained in every diet and ize class, showing enough food was provided to exceed the amount needed to survive, however, the rate of tail regeneration may have been at its maximum. Energy was allocated differently among size classes and treatment after caudal autotomy.