Imbricate alligator lizard
A species of Alligator lizards Scientific name : Barisia imbricata Genus : Alligator lizards
Imbricate alligator lizard, A species of Alligator lizards
Scientific name: Barisia imbricata
Genus: Alligator lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By denn_hernandez , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Originally a species with four subspecies native to Mexico, the imbricate alligator lizard is now considered a complex of four individual species. It can generally be found under rocks and fallen logs in mountain forest landscapes. It bears live young instead of laying eggs.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Imbricate alligator lizard's diet primarily comprises various types of arthropods. Analyzed stomach contents revealed a preference for consuming spiders, but insects, particularly beetles, and millipedes also form a significant part of its food intake.
Appearance
Imbricate alligator lizard is a medium-sized lizard, exhibiting an elongated, slightly flattened body covered with rough, imbricate scales. The dominant coloration ranges from brown to olive, frequently adorned with dark crossbands. Its head is triangular, marked with elongated scales, and an elongated tail's scales are stacked like roof tiles. The ventral area is typically lighter. Notable gender differences include males possessing slightly larger heads and overall size.
Behavior
Imbricate alligator lizard is a solitary species, most active during the night, exhibiting robust climbing abilities. Known for its distinct defensive posture, it elevates its highly keeled scales, resembling an imbricated roof or pine cone. Typically non-aggressive, imbricate alligator lizard uses this unique 'pine cone' display as a deterrent when threatened. No migration patterns are observed, as it inhabits temperate forest regions year-round.
Photo By denn_hernandez , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Anguid lizards Genus
Alligator lizards Species
Imbricate alligator lizard