Dusky earless agama
A species of Aphaniotis Scientific name : Aphaniotis fusca Genus : Aphaniotis
Dusky earless agama, A species of Aphaniotis
Scientific name: Aphaniotis fusca
Genus: Aphaniotis
Content
Description General Info
Photo By sullivanribbit , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Dusky earless agama is a diurnal, territorial reptile, known for its ability to change body temperatures for both self-cooling and thermoregulation. It plays a significant role in the ecological dynamic through the consumption of various insects, and its adaptive survival mechanism involves playing dead when facing potential threats. This ability helps regulate insect populations and contributes to a balanced ecosystem.
General Info
Lifespan
3-5 years
Diet
Dusky earless agama follows a carnivorous diet, consisting chiefly of small insects and arthropods. Their dietary preference significantly leans towards small crustaceans, particularly consuming zooplankton and aquatic larvae in larger amounts.
Appearance
Dusky earless agama is a small, slender lizard with smooth, scales. Predominantly dark brown, it may display lighter brown or yellow bands or spots. Notably, the underbody and legs are often lighter or pinkish in tone. It has long, delicate limbs enhancing its agile nature, a tail almost twice its body length, and a pointed snout, ideal for hunting in narrow crevices.
Behavior
Dusky earless agama typically gravitate towards bright light, displaying an intriguing phototaxis behavior. Routinely found lurking among foliage during daytime, they employ excellent camouflage for survival. They are, generally, solitary by nature, avoiding interspecies interaction unless necessary for survival. Notably, dusky earless agama possess a unique self-righting mechanism, allowing them to swiftly revert to a stable position if overturned.
Population
Stable
Photo By sullivanribbit , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Dragons Genus
Aphaniotis Species
Dusky earless agama