Water Loss and Microhabitats in Three Sympatric Species of Lizards (Reptilia, Lacertilia) from Martinique, West Indies

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Abstract
Rate of water loss (RWL), vital limit of water loss and survival time were studied in 3 sympatric species of lizards living in the dry southeastern part of Martinique [Island] West Indies. The experiments were conducted in dry air (5% relative humidity) at 26.degree.-27.degree. C using anhydrous CaCl2 as a desiccation material. The iguanid Anolis roquet salinei, the teid Gymnophthalmus pleii and the gecko Sphaerodactylus vincinti psammius had RWL of 1.71, 1.79, and 7.65 mg/g per h, respectively, and withstood weight loss of 37.8, 28.2, and 23.9%, respectively. Results are discussed in terms of adaptation to microenvironment and success of colonization.

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