Mesalina brevirostris brevirostris
A species of Mesalina Scientific name : Mesalina brevirostris brevirostris Genus : Mesalina
Mesalina brevirostris brevirostris, A species of Mesalina
Scientific name: Mesalina brevirostris brevirostris
Genus: Mesalina
Content
Description General Info
, used under CC BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Mesalina brevirostris brevirostris is a unique reptile primarily known for its thermoregulatory behavior. It exhibits deeply ingrained diurnal patterns, actively seeking sunlight to control its internal temperature throughout the day. Besides, it thrives in the harsh environment of sandy deserts due to its remarkable physiological adaptation to extract water from the preys it consumes, thus minimizing water-loss in its arid habitat.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
The diet of mesalina brevirostris brevirostris predominantly comprises arthropods. It feeds heavily on isopods, beetles, and ants, while occasionally consuming spiders and smaller lizards for nutritional diversity.
Appearance
Mesalina brevirostris brevirostris is a small lizard with a slim, elongated body covered in rough scales. Its primary coloration is beige with darker brown stripes running lengthwise down its back. The underside is lighter, typically a pale yellow or cream. Males are often slightly larger than females, and they possess more prominent nostrils. The most distinctive feature of mesalina brevirostris brevirostris is its notably short snout, a trait that differentiates it from other similar species.
Behavior
Mesalina brevirostris brevirostris is solitary, often engaging in conspicuous sun-basking behavior. Exhibiting mainly diurnal tendencies, it is known to be most active during daylight hours. Its survival in arid habitats notably involves lapping up dew droplets with its short snout. No specific territorial behavior has been observed for this species.
, used under CC BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original