Natalia's agama
A species of Dymond's japalure Scientific name : Acanthosaura nataliae Genus : Dymond's japalure
Natalia's agama, A species of Dymond's japalure
Scientific name: Acanthosaura nataliae
Genus: Dymond's japalure
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Liu S, Hou M, Mo M, Rao D (2020) A new species of the genus Acanthosaura (Squamata, Agamidae) from Yunnan, China, with comments on its conservation status. ZooKeys 959: 113-135. , used under CC BY 4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Natalia's agama carves a discreet ecological role in the subtropical forests by adapting to a life high in the trees where it predominantly feeds on insects. Its unique cryptic behavior enables it to blend astoundingly well with the tree barks, a survival mechanism that aids in populating areas with a high density of predators. Moreover, it manifests an interesting territorial behavior, displaying crest erection to deter potential intruders.
General Info
Lifespan
8-10 years
Diet
Natalia's agama primarily consumes a diet of insects including ants, spiders, and beetles. This omnivorous species also feeds on small vertebrates and plant matter when available.
Appearance
Natalia's agama is a small-sized lizard with a slender body covered in rough, sturdy scales for protection. Its main coloration is a striking green, which provides perfect camouflage in its largely forested habitat. The distinctive feature of natalia's agama is a row of sharp, triangular spines along its back and tail, highest at midbody. No significant differences are observed in coloration or morphology based on age or gender.
Behavior
Natalia's agama is predominantly arboreal, occupying the lower and middle strata of forests. Solitary by nature, it treads cautiously and maintains a secure distance from others, exhibiting territorial behavior. When threatened, it employs a camouflage tactic, exhibiting minimal motion and blending in with its habitat. This species is also noted for its remarkable antipredator stance, erecting its dorsal crests during confrontation.
Photo By Liu S, Hou M, Mo M, Rao D (2020) A new species of the genus Acanthosaura (Squamata, Agamidae) from Yunnan, China, with comments on its conservation status. ZooKeys 959: 113-135. , used under CC BY 4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Dragons Genus
Dymond's japalure Species
Natalia's agama