Salvadora hexalepis deserticola
A species of Patch-nosed snakes Scientific name : Salvadora hexalepis deserticola Genus : Patch-nosed snakes
Salvadora hexalepis deserticola, A species of Patch-nosed snakes
Scientific name: Salvadora hexalepis deserticola
Genus: Patch-nosed snakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By dataecologist , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Salvadora hexalepis deserticola is a species known to thrive in arid desert habitats, displaying an innate ability to cope with extreme temperatures and low water availability. It showcases an unusual diurnal-nocturnal rhythm, a behavior that adapts to the extreme temperature swings. The salvadora hexalepis deserticola also illustrates unique predatory behavior, specializing in feeding on invertebrate and small reptiles, boosting its significance in controlling the desert ecosystem’s population dynamics.
General Info
Lifespan
5-10 years
Diet
Salvadora hexalepis deserticola primarily feed on arthropods, with a special predilection for insects such as beetles and crickets. They are opportunistic feeders, supplementing their diet with small vertebrates and even plant material when available.
Appearance
Salvadora hexalepis deserticola is a medium-sized lizard with a sleek body and smooth, shiny scales. It sports a tan to light brown coloration that seamlessly blends into its desert environment. Males display bolder black and white checkered patterns on their bodies. A significant attribute is the distinctive counter shading, with a paler belly, facilitating excellent camouflage. It possesses a long, tapering tail, which is twice the length of its body.
Behavior
Salvadora hexalepis deserticola is a solitary, diurnal species that burrows into sandy terrain for shelter and temperature regulation. Primarily a forager, it typically engages in sit-and-wait hunting or active searching for preys. It is territorial, often exhibiting tongue-flicking behaviors as a sign of aggression towards intruders.
Photo By dataecologist , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Colubrids Genus
Patch-nosed snakes Species
Salvadora hexalepis deserticola