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Cophosaurus texanus texanus
A species of Greater earless lizards Scientific name : Cophosaurus texanus texanus Genus : Greater earless lizards
Cophosaurus texanus texanus, A species of Greater earless lizards
Scientific name: Cophosaurus texanus texanus
Genus: Greater earless lizards
Content
Description General Info
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Description
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Cophosaurus texanus texanus is a unique reptile with fascinating adaptations. Its remarkable ability to flatten its body against surfaces, a behavior known as thigmokinesis, greatly enhances its thermoregulation. Also known as the Greater Earless Lizard, it thrives within its xeric ecosystem by adopting a sit-and-wait hunting strategy, relying on small insects as its primary food source.
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General Info
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Lifespan
5-10 years
Diet
Cophosaurus texanus texanus predominantly survives on a diet of small insects and arachnids. Its sharp, pointed teeth are well-suited for swift and efficient capture of swift spiders, ants, and beetles.
Appearance
Cophosaurus texanus texanus is a small, lean reptile with elongated body and long, slender tail. Its scaly skin predominantly features hues of beige and gray, often adorned with darker irregular patches across its dorsum and sides. An outstretch of skin between limbs, known as the fringe-toed, is a striking characteristic. Young ones may showcase brighter pigments, fading as they age.
Behavior
Cophosaurus texanus texanus is a diurnal species, active during daylight hours and known for its remarkable thermoregulatory behavior, basking in open areas to regulate body temperature. Typically solitary, it exhibits territorial displays when threatened. As an adept burrower, cophosaurus texanus texanus digs shallow nests, primarily for thermoregulation and predator avoidance. It is insectivorous, with diet based on local arthropod availability.
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Scientific Classification
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Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
North american spiny lizards Genus
Greater earless lizards Species
Cophosaurus texanus texanus