Striped lava lizard
A species of Galapagos lava lizards Scientific name : Tropidurus semitaeniatus Genus : Galapagos lava lizards
Striped lava lizard, A species of Galapagos lava lizards
Scientific name: Tropidurus semitaeniatus
Genus: Galapagos lava lizards
Content
Description General Info
Description
Found only in eastern Brazil, the striped lava lizard is a small, fleet terrestrial omnivore with a taste for fruit, herbs and insects. It is an ambush predator that is colored to match the lava outcrops where it commonly makes its home.
General Info
Lifespan
5-10 years
Diet
Striped lava lizard is primarily an omnivore. Its diet is characterized by a substantial intake of plant materials, mainly leaves, and arthropods. Nonetheless, it also consumes smaller vertebrates opportunely. The food preference is strongly influenced by seasonal availability.
Appearance
Striped lava lizard is a medium-sized lizard with a robust, oval-shaped body and rough, scalloped skin. Its primary coloration is a blend of tan and grey, with bold, semi-horizontal stripes stretching from its neck to tail. Unique to this species are its flat head and large, protruding eyes. Though slight variations exist between individuals, there are no noticeable differences due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Striped lava lizard is a solitary species, known for its peculiar vertical stance while basking. This posture aids heat absorption while reducing exposure to predators. Striped lava lizard hunts insects using an ambush approach and uses color adaptations for camouflage in its arid habitat. Males exhibit territorial behavior, utilizing challenges and combat to maintain dominion.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Neotropical ground lizards Genus
Galapagos lava lizards Species
Striped lava lizard