ABSTRACT
Mathematical modeling has been the major source of progress in the understanding of the evolution of two contrasting reproductive strategies: semelparity (death following a single reproduction) versus iteroparity (iterative reproduction). However, current models do not allow us to understand why some animal groups (e.g., insects and fish) are more oriented towards semelparity compared to others (e.g., birds and mammals), in which this strategy is under-represented. In addition, the putative links between allelic combinations and their associated respective reproductive strategies (semelparity versus iteroparity) rely on the personal choice and convenience of the modeler, and hence are subject to speculation. Based on field and laboratory research on the reproductive traits of the viviparous Aspic Viper (Vipera aspis), this chapter proposes a different approach and a novel scenario for the tendency toward semelparity observed in a snake population monitored in the field. The main purpose of this scenario is to provide rational links between physiological requirements for reproduction, lifetime reproductive success (a proxy of Darwinian fitness) and demographic consequences. This scenario is testable both in the field and in the laboratory and consequently it also opens a door for modeling, criticisms and generalization.
