The distribution and ecology of the middle lizards Lacerta media Lantz et Cyren, 1920 (Reptilia: Sauria: Lacertidae) in Dagestan

Abstract

The article presents information on the distribution of Lacerta media in Dagestan and neighboring areas of Georgia and Azerbaijan. On the basis of original data and available literature, a map of finds of lizards has been created. Previously unknown populations in Dagestan are described. Generally, Lacerta media is widespread in the mountainous part of the republic. The range of inhabited altitudes is 840−2250 m above sea level. The area of the species range in Dagestan of about 521 kmІ (1.04% of the whole territory of the Republic and 1.86% of the area of its mountainous part) is represented by four small isolated territories. The lizard lives in the large semi-arid valleys of mountain rivers (Samur, Kurakh, Andiyskoye Koysu, Avarskoye Koysu). The population density is 7.5–10 to 50–62.2 ind./ha. The maximum density of lizards was discovered in the valley of the river Samur, the minimum — Andiyskoye Koysu and Kurakh. The increased number of lizards in some locations is due to their inaccessibility to people and, therefore, poor anthropogenic development. The geobotanical characteristics of biotopes in different parts of the regional area is presented. The species population is stable in the region. The lizard is protected in the Kosobo-Kelebskiy reserve. Refs 16. Figs 1.