Ovarian Cycle of Crotaphytus col/aris (Reptilia, Lacertilia, Iguanidae) from Arkansas with Emphasis on Corpora Albicantia, Follicular Atresia, and Reproductive Potential

Macroscopic and histological analyses of the ovarian cycle of Crotaphytus col/aris were conducted during 1971 and 1972. The reproductive season extends from April to late June; examination of ovarian h istosections revealed two distinct sets of corpora lutea, indicating that two clutches of eggs are produced per season. The average clutch size was 6.4. Corpora lutea regress into permanent ovarian scars (corpora al'bicantia). Consequently, corpora albicantia may be used to estimate total reproductive potential for an animal. In addition, two types of atretic follicles were staged according to their degenerate morphology. The similarity and persistence of these ovarian structures (atretic follicles and corpora albicantia) may limit the value of macroscopic interpretations.