San cristobal lava lizard
A species of Lava lizards Scientific name : Microlophus bivittatus Genus : Lava lizards
San cristobal lava lizard, A species of Lava lizards
Scientific name: Microlophus bivittatus
Genus: Lava lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Fuzzball288 , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The San Cristóbal lava lizard (Microlophus bivittatus) is a species of lava lizard endemic to San Cristóbal Island in the Galápagos Islands. The species is commonly attributed to the genus Microlophus but has been attributed to the genus Tropidurus.
General Info
Lifespan
3-10 years
Diet
San cristobal lava lizard predominantly feed on plant matter, with a particular fondness for the opuntia cactus which forms a significant portion of their diet. They also occasionally consume small arthropods.
Appearance
San cristobal lava lizard is a medium-sized lizard with elongated body and limb structure, and rough, scaly skin. Its coloring varies but is primarily a mixture of grey, brown, or black on the dorsal side, often with dual longitudinal stripes. Males may present with a conspicuous dewlap and unique throat pattern, which can intensify in color during the breeding season.
Behavior
San cristobal lava lizard is a diurnal, solitary species with a prominent terrestrial lifestyle. Known for their distinctive push-up displays, they utilize body postures for territory defense and communication. Their foraging behavior is adapted to their rocky coastal habitat, comprised mainly of arthropods and plant matter. Seasonally, male san cristobal lava lizard become virulently territorial during mating season.
Photo By Fuzzball288 , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Neotropical ground lizards Genus
Lava lizards Species
San cristobal lava lizard