Common rough-scaled lizard
A species of Meroles Scientific name : Meroles squamulosus Genus : Meroles
Common rough-scaled lizard, A species of Meroles
Scientific name: Meroles squamulosus
Genus: Meroles
Content
Description General Info
Description
Common rough-scaled lizards are medium-sized lizards each with a small head, body, and a long tail. The frontonasal is divided and has small body scales in 42 to 58 rows at the midline. The backs of these lizards are brownish grey with narrow dark blotches and rows of pale spots. Unlike the Ichnotropis species, M. squamulosus does not have subocular scales bordering the lip.
General Info
Lifespan
5-7 years
Diet
Common rough-scaled lizard is an insectivorous species, primarily feeding on ants and termites. Its specialized tongue is adapted for efficiently capturing these small arthropods, delineating their significant role in its diet.
Appearance
Common rough-scaled lizard is a small, elongated reptile featuring a rugged, scalloped skin. It has a distinct sandy-brown color that aids in camouflaging in a desert environment. Notable are its long hind limbs, equipped with fringed scales for easy sand burrowing. There are no significant differences in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies. Upon close inspection, dark streaks near the eyes could be seen.
Behavior
Common rough-scaled lizard's behavior is characterized by diurnal activities, mainly occurring in the morning and late afternoon. It shelters in burrows or rock crevices during peak heat periods, possibly indicating thermoregulatory behavior. A ground-dwelling species with a solitary nature, common rough-scaled lizard displays territorialism through body-raised threat displays. It uses friction-based locomotion through desert sand, a notable adaptive survival behavior for its arid habitat.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Wall lizards Genus
Meroles Species
Common rough-scaled lizard