Fiji crested iguana
A species of South pacific iguanas Scientific name : Brachylophus vitiensis Genus : South pacific iguanas
Fiji crested iguana, A species of South pacific iguanas
Scientific name: Brachylophus vitiensis
Genus: South pacific iguanas
Content
Description General Info
Photo By PG Palmer , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Fiji crested iguana is a large stocky lizard distinguished from the Fiji banded iguana by the presence of three narrow, cream to white colored bands on males, rather than the broader bluish bands of the latter species. These whitish bands often have chevrons of black scales close to them. Brachylophus vitiensis is distinguished by its larger size growing to 75 centimetres (30 in) in length and weighing as much as 300 grams (0.66 lb). It is further distinguished by the presence of a taller spiny "crest" on its back with spines as long as 1.5 centimetres (0.59 in) running from the nape of the neck to the base of its tail. When Fiji crested iguanas first hatch from their eggs they are dark green, but after several hours their skin becomes bright emerald green and narrow white bands can be seen along their body. Their eyes are reddish orange or pinkish gold in color.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Fiji crested iguana primarily feeds on the leaves, fruits, and flowers of various tree species. With an emphasis on arboreal food sources, it selectively grazes on nutritious foliage, illustrating folivorous and frugivorous attributes in its dietary pattern.
Appearance
Fiji crested iguana is a medium-sized iguana with a distinct, elongated body and rough, scaly skin. This species is recognizable due to its bright green coloration, notably its vivid turquoise-blue bands running vertically down its back. Females and juveniles are less vibrant and lack the distinctive bands. It has a crest of small spines running from the back of its head down to its long, tapering tail.
Behavior
Fiji crested iguana is primarily diurnal, engaging in activities such as foraging and grooming during the day. Social yet territorial, fiji crested iguana forms small groups and rigorously defends its habitat using visual displays and signals. Its distinct behavior of color change during communication and threat displays, offers an adaptive advantage in the dense foliage of its habitat.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By PG Palmer , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Iguanids Genus
South pacific iguanas Species
Fiji crested iguana