Hood lava lizard
A species of Lava lizards Scientific name : Microlophus delanonis Genus : Lava lizards
Hood lava lizard, A species of Lava lizards
Scientific name: Microlophus delanonis
Genus: Lava lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By putneymark , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Microlophus delanonis, the Española lava lizard or Hood lava lizard, is endemic to the Galapagos island of Española. The species is commonly attributed to the genus Microlophus but has been attributed to the genus Tropidurus.
General Info
Lifespan
4-8 years
Diet
Hood lava lizard primarily feeds on a diverse range of insects. Preference has been noted for beetles and arachnids, optimizing its essential nutrient intake. Season also impacts diet variation, adjusting to available food resources.
Appearance
Hood lava lizard is a small-sized lizard with a slender body structure. Its rough skin is primarily sandy brown, blending into its natural desert habitat. Males are recognized by their distinct black throat patch and a series of black lateral stripes interspersed with white spots. They do not have any wings or horns, but their long, tapering tails are quite prominent.
Behavior
Hood lava lizard is a diurnal reptile that lives in a terrestrial habitat, particularly rocky terrains. It shows territorial tendencies, with males patrolling and defending areas against others. Unique to this species is its 'push up' display and foot-shaking behaviors during male-to-male confrontations. It's a solitary creature, with minimal social interaction outside mating season.
Photo By putneymark , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Neotropical ground lizards Genus
Lava lizards Species
Hood lava lizard