Frequency and effort of reproduction in female Vipera aspis from a southern population

The frequency of reproduction of the asp viper (Vipera aspis, Viperidae) wa s studied in a population living along the coasts of central Italy. An annu al reproductive cycle seemed to be the rule during the 5-year study period. Annual reproduction, high average mass of reproductive females, and large size of neonates, compared with other northern or continental populations, are presumably due to the particularly suitable climatic conditions of the area, as in most coastal habitats of the Mediterranean region. Such a scena rio should influence the extent of the feeding period, which allows females , within a few months after parturition, to regain their previous body cond ition and reproduce again the following year. (C) 1999 Editions scientifiqu es et medicales Elsevier SAS.