Podarcis siculus palmarolae
A species of Wall lizards Scientific name : Podarcis siculus palmarolae Genus : Wall lizards
Podarcis siculus palmarolae, A species of Wall lizards
Scientific name: Podarcis siculus palmarolae
Genus: Wall lizards
Content
Description General Info
Description
Podarcis siculus palmarolae is known for its intriguing adaptations to the small islets it inhabits. This lizard species exhibits a high degree of self-sufficiency, including the unique ability to deal with scarce food resources by adopting cannibalistic behavior. Remarkably, it also exploits sea-washed plant material, thus benefitting from oceanic productivity, unprecedented in other terrestrial lizards.
General Info
Lifespan
5-8 years
Diet
Podarcis siculus palmarolae's diet primarily consists of arthropods. Specific dietary preferences include various insects, particularly beetles and orthopterans that inhabit its Mediterranean ecosystem. Additionally, it has been observed to occasionally consume plant matter.
Appearance
Podarcis siculus palmarolae is a small lizard with a slender body covered in smooth, shiny scales. Adults display a variety of colors, usually greenish, grey or brown, often with dark-spotted flanks. Males are marked with striking blue spots during mating season. They possess a long tail, which makes up more than half of their total length. Thanks to this extended tail and the well-developed limbs, podarcis siculus palmarolae is very agile, which aids in its survival and hunting.
Behavior
Podarcis siculus palmarolae is predominantly solitary and territorial, exhibiting clear boundaries among individuals. This species is active during daylight, displaying a strong penchant for basking in sunlight. Additionally, their diet mainly comprises small arthropods and insects. Adaptations for survival include swift, erratic movements for evading predators and camouflage ability, blending well into their natural habitat.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Wall lizards Genus
Wall lizards Species
Podarcis siculus palmarolae