Stages of Embryonic Development of the Amazonian turtle Kinosternon Scorpioides (Testudines, Kinosternidae)

Abstract

Background: The developmental biology of K. scorpioides is described, based on the phenotype. This species is important for the flora because they are excellent seed disseminators. In addition, basic embryological information is not yet fully clarified, and this research provides unprecedented information on the chelonian embryology of the Amazonian fauna. Methods: Females were monitored throughout the reproductive cycle, by video monitoring, to identify nests and the presence of newly laid eggs. At regular weekly intervals, embryo samples were collected fixed in a 4% paraformol solution and preserved in 70% alcohol. For the embryonic characterization we used a stereomicroscope and the scanning electron microscopy method. Results: We describe 15 embryonic stages for a 15-week (105-day) incubation cycle. Only at 42 days (6th week) was the morphological characterization of a chelonian observed and at the 12th week (Stage XII) the phenotypic characterization of the species kinosternon scorpioides. Conclusions: In view of the evidence, we found that these phases are similar to the other turtles, with structural variations in the appearance and disappearance of structures due to the specific characteristics for the species.