Sequence Of Ossification In The Skeleton Of Growing Lizard Chalcides Ocellatus Forscal (Scincidae, Reptilia)

Abstract

The distribution of cartilaginous and ossification rudiments were described in the live-bearing lizards, Chalcides ocellatus, at birth, one-month-old, and 12-month-old. The skeletal elements investigated are: neurocranium, dennatocranium, visceral skeleton, vertebral column, ribs, sternum, appendicular skeleton and sesamoids and the ossification time for every skeletal element rudiment was recorded. Some variation occurs in sequence of ossification. The present results were compared with those reported for other reptiles.