Peru pacific iguana
A species of Lava lizards Scientific name : Microlophus peruvianus Genus : Lava lizards
Peru pacific iguana, A species of Lava lizards
Scientific name: Microlophus peruvianus
Genus: Lava lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Josue Hermoza , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Microlophus peruvianus, the Peru Pacific iguana, is a species of lava lizard endemic to the Ecuador, Peru, and Chile. The species is commonly attributed to the genus Microlophus but has been attributed to the genus Tropidurus.
General Info
Lifespan
8-10 years
Diet
Peru pacific iguana is an omnivorous reptile, primarily feasting on a variety of arthropods. Patterns reveal a preference for beetles, spiders and isopods, with occasional consumption of plant matter supplementing its nutritional intake.
Appearance
Peru pacific iguana is a robust, medium-sized lizard with scale-covered skin. It displays a predominantly grey coloration, often with a variable mixture of brown and yellow. The species sports distinctive dorsal crests running along its body, ending in a tapered tail. Notably, males possess larger crests compared to females. Young individuals tend to be more brightly colored than their older counterparts.
Behavior
Peru pacific iguana exhibits a high level of sexual dimorphism and basking behavior. Males exhibit intensive territoriality, while females engage in communal nesting. Primarily active during the day, it feeds on arthropods, vegetation, and frugivory. Unusually for reptiles, peru pacific iguana also exhibits group thermoregulation in cooler climates.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Neotropical ground lizards Genus
Lava lizards Species
Peru pacific iguana 
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