Ctenosaura similis similis
A species of Spinytail iguanas Scientific name : Ctenosaura similis similis Genus : Spinytail iguanas
Ctenosaura similis similis, A species of Spinytail iguanas
Scientific name: Ctenosaura similis similis
Genus: Spinytail iguanas
Content
Description General Info
Photo By abbyarroyo , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Ctenosaura similis similis exhibits fascinating behaviors such as basking in groups to thermoregulate and exhibiting territorial dominance primarily via head-bobbing displays. An adept climber, this species leverages arboreal habitats for both foraging and refuge from predators. Its omnivorous diet, often inclusive of fruits, flowers, insects, and smaller vertebrates, facilitates important seed dispersal roles within its ecosystem.
General Info
Lifespan
15-25 years
Diet
Ctenosaura similis similis is predominantly herbivorous, mainly consuming flowers, leaves, stems, and fruits. Occasionally, this species indulges in small insects and vertebrates, supplementing their primary plant-based diet.
Appearance
Ctenosaura similis similis is a large, robust lizard with rough grey to dark brown scales, often sporting black mottling. The tail is ringed and accounts for most of its length, while the body tapers at its end into a pointed snout. Its dorsal crest, a row of spiky scales, extends from its neck to tail. The males have larger heads and jowls, while juveniles are characterized by green coloration, which darkens with age.
Behavior
Ctenosaura similis similis is an agile, arboreal reptile primarily noted for its territorial display, which involves head-bobbing and push-ups. Mostly solitary, it exhibits basking and foraging during the day, known to feed on a varied omnivorous diet. In extreme conditions, ctenosaura similis similis can execute an unusual behavior of 'playing dead' for survival, showcasing its adaptability.
Photo By abbyarroyo , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Iguanids Genus
Spinytail iguanas Species
Ctenosaura similis similis