Floreana lava lizard
A species of Lava lizards Scientific name : Microlophus grayii Genus : Lava lizards
Floreana lava lizard, A species of Lava lizards
Scientific name: Microlophus grayii
Genus: Lava lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By sclerobunus , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Microlophus grayii, commonly known as the Floreana lava lizard, is a species of lava lizard endemic to the Galapagos island of Floreana. The species is commonly assigned to the genus Microlophus but has been assigned to the genus Tropidurus.
General Info
Lifespan
10-20 years
Diet
Floreana lava lizard primarily feeds on plants, exhibiting a predominantly herbivorous diet. This creature is particularly fond of succulent foliage and seeds, making these dietary staples crucial to its nutrition.
Appearance
Floreana lava lizard is a medium-sized lizard known for its flattened body and rough, scaly skin. Covering most of its body are shades of yellow, brown, and black, dispersed in a distinctive pattern resembling blotchy spots. Males can be easily identified by the presence of a vibrant, blue patch on their throats. Their tails are long and taper to a sharp point.
Behavior
Floreana lava lizard show a distinct territorial behavior, often spotted defending their rocky habitats aggressively. These largely solitary creatures, exhibit a curious basking behavior, absorbing solar heat on seaward stones. Males notably flaunt dynamic head-bobbing displays during courtship and territorial disputes. Their survival is enhanced by their adeptness at perfectly camouflaging within their rocky terrains.
Population
Stable
Photo By sclerobunus , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Neotropical ground lizards Genus
Lava lizards Species
Floreana lava lizard