Spiny whorltail iguana
A species of Whorltail iguanas Scientific name : Stenocercus crassicaudatus Genus : Whorltail iguanas
Spiny whorltail iguana, A species of Whorltail iguanas
Scientific name: Stenocercus crassicaudatus
Genus: Whorltail iguanas
Content
Description General Info
Description
The spiny whorltail iguana (Stenocercus crassicaudatus) is a species of lizard of the Tropidurinae subfamily, found in the state of Cusco, southeast Peru. It was first described by Johann Jakob von Tschudi in 1845.
General Info
Lifespan
8-12 years
Diet
Spiny whorltail iguana is essentially insectivorous, primarily feeding on ants. Its diverse diet, however, also includes beetles, spiders, and other small arthropods that they finds in their natural habitat.
Appearance
Spiny whorltail iguana is a medium-sized, stout-bodied lizard with rough, primarily grey scales that transition into vibrant red closer to the tail. Its elongated, robust tail is a signature feature, covered in spikes for protection. Some males may exhibit handsome, well-developed crest running from the head to the tail, giving them an imposing appearance.
Behavior
Spiny whorltail iguana primarily exhibit a solitary lifestyle, engaging in diurnal activities. Conserving energy, they bask in the sun and hide in crevices during hotter temperatures. Territories are marked using fecal marks instead of physical aggression. Although not socially inclined, rare group interactions happen largely during mating season.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Neotropical ground lizards Genus
Whorltail iguanas Species
Spiny whorltail iguana