Structure and dynamics of a population of Agama impalearis (Sauria : Agamidae) in central Jbilet Mountains, Morocco

A population study of Agama impalearis was conducted during two consecutive years (1993-1994) in a Jujube bush site located in an arid area at the Jbi let Mountains (Western Morocco). Lizards of both sexes required approximati vely one year to reach sexual maturity. One to two clutches were produced p er bleeding season (May-August) and clutch size was significantly correlate d with maternal body size. The annual reproductive output was in average of 20 eggs per female per year and did not exhibit a significant difference b etween the two years of study. Population size showed important seasonal ch anges throughout the study period and absolute spring density estimates wer e of 15 and 11 ind/ha, respectively in 1993 and 1994. In the post-reproduct ive period (September) the population density (excluding hatchlings) marked ly declined and was only of 4-5 ind/ha. After the completion of hatching pe riod (July to early November), the densities of hatchlings were 11 and 13 i nd/ha respectively in 1993 and 1994 compensing for the population losses. T he annual turnover rate of the population did not exhibit a significant yea rly change and was of 77%. Adult survivorship after the reproductive activi ty varied between years and juvenile survival during the first year was est imated to be 35%. Maximum longevity assessed by means of squelettochronolog y was 5 years.