Fluctuating asymmetry has been proposed as a useful noninvasive tool for detecting the influence of the environment on body development. In the present study, we used digital images to estimate the fluctuating asymmetry of the plastron in an isolated Testudo graeca population in Dobrogea, Romania. We extracted data from the photos regarding the area, height, and width of 3 plastron scutes. A total of 155 adult tortoises analysed showed reduced variation in plastron asymmetry and no significant relationship was detected between fluctuating asymmetry and sex or body size. We suggest that fluctuating asymmetry may be an individual trait, with no predictive value at the population level.

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Abstract. The land of the "Cetatea Histria" Museum Complex, the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, holds a large population of Testudo graeca, relatively well isolated due to the existing fence around the land of museum and the lack of suitable habitat in the vicinity. The relative high density of individuals in this area, 1.68 individuals / ha, and low recapture rates, 9.25%, suggests a large population size. The presence of juveniles and the lack of individuals with tick infestation or traces of human violence on carapace or plastron indicate a viable population which occupies an area with limited human activity.Résumé. Le périmètre du Complexe Muséal «Cetatea Histria», Réserve de la biosphère du Delta du Danube, est habité par une importante population de Testudo graeca relativement bien isolée en raison de la barrière existante et le manque d'habitat convenable à proximité. La forte densité relative des individus dans ce domaine et la recapture faible suggèrent une grande population. La présence de nombreux juvéniles et aucune infestation de tiques observées ou de violence humaine sur la carapace ou le plastron, montrent une reproduction de la population qui occupe une superficie où l'activité humaine est limitée.