Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
ACTA ZOOLOGICA BULGARICA, ss.23-29, 2017 (SCI-Expanded)
For two consecutive years (2012 and 2013), studies on reproductive ecology of Emys orbicularis were conducted at seven localities in the Mediterranean region of Turkey. Our findings show that individuals usually emerge from hibernation between the end of February and early March. Depending on latitude and elevation, mating occurred between March and May, and egg -laying lasted between May and July. Hatchlings were first observed between June and August. Average fecundity in females was 7 (5-10) eggs, and incubation period was determined to last between 80 and 110 days. Average size of eggs was 33.55 x 20.32 mm, and only a weak correlation between numbers of eggs and female body sizes (straight carapace length, SCL) was found. Average measurements of hatchlings were: SCL was 20.6 mm (18-23 mm), plastron length (PL) was 19.6 (17.6-22.4 mm) and weight was 3.6 g (2.9-4.3 g). These were compared to previously published results obtained for E. orbicularis from other parts of its range. Also, factors that affect reproductive success were discussed.