Madagascar keeled cordylid
A species of Tracheloptychus Scientific name : Tracheloptychus madagascariensis Genus : Tracheloptychus
Madagascar keeled cordylid, A species of Tracheloptychus
Scientific name: Tracheloptychus madagascariensis
Genus: Tracheloptychus
Content
Description General Info
Photo By airalcorn2 , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The madagascar keeled cordylid is a small lizard endemic to Madagascar. This ground-dwelling lizard inhabits coastal areas, scrubs, and dry forests, and it’s often seen on beaches. It is active during the day when it hunts for aquatic insects, small invertebrates, and other small lizards and their eggs.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Madagascar keeled cordylid principally subsists on a diet of green leaves, particularly those of the dicotyledonous trees. This species supplements its foliage-based diet with fruits, flowers, and occasional invertebrates for balanced nutrition.
Appearance
Madagascar keeled cordylid is a medium-sized, plump-bodied lizard endemic to Madagascar. Their skin is rough and scaly, displaying a mix of ochre, brown, and black hues. This reptilian species exhibits a characteristic pattern of dark spots and circular markings on the dorsal side, extending from the head to the spiky tail. Males are slightly larger than females, with a more pronounced crest along the back.
Behavior
Madagascar keeled cordylid is a solitary species, spending much of its day basking in the sun while maintaining strict territories. It communicates its territorial boundaries through scent marking. This animal forages in a slow, deliberate manner, primarily feeding late afternoon. It uses unique tail vibrations as a defensive response to potential threats.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By airalcorn2 , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Plated lizards Genus
Tracheloptychus Species
Madagascar keeled cordylid