Embryological development of Salvator merianae (Squamata:Teiidae).

Here we describe the embryonic development of Salvator merianae external morphologic features, as based on observation of 28 embryos across different days of incubation at 31 ± 0.5°C. Observed developmental stages were grouped and classified into early, middle, and late periods. The early period (stages 3 to 11) is distinguished by the origin of the encephalic vesicles, sensory placodes, pharyngeal arches, and degree of body flexion and rotation. The medium period (stages 8 to 15) is distinguished by limb differentiation and by cranium-facial characteristics. The late period (stages 15 to 18) is determined by scale patterns, pigmentation, and embryo growth. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.