| Issue № 2 |
Original research |
pdf-version |
The effect of wind on the activity of toad-headed agamas (Phrynocephalus mystaceus) on the Sarykum dune
| Cherlin Vladimir Alexandrovich | DSc, Dagestan State University, 43-a M. Gadzhiyev str., Makhachkala, Republic of Dagestan, 367000 Russia, cherlin51@mail.ru |
| Labazanov Ibragim Makhmudovich | Dagestan State University, 43-a M. Gadzhiyev str., Makhachkala, Republic of Dagestan, 367000 Russia, ibralabz.0@bk.ru |
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Keywords: toad-headed agama wind speed ecology |
Summary: The article presents the results of a study of the effect of wind speed on the ecology of toad-headed agamas (Phrynocephalus mystaceus). It is generally accepted that the wind inhibits the activity of toad-headed agamas. But our research has shown that the speed of air movement (wind) alone has little effect on the behavior and ecology of these lizards. They are much more strongly influenced by the air temperature: if the wind is cool or even cold, the toad-headed agamas leave the surface; if the wind is warm, they do not react to it. In addition, our measurements showed that at the same time, the wind speed at an altitude of 1.5–2.0 m (approximately at the level of a person's face) is about 2.5–15 times higher than at an altitude of 3 cm above the sand, where the wind is very weak. Motivations related to the seasonal phases of the life cycle can also play a major role in the reactions of toad-headed agamas to the wind. But this topic requires special development. © Petrozavodsk State University |
Received on: 24 November 2025 Published on: 22 June 2026 | |
References
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