North african spiny dabb lizard
A species of Dabb lizards, Also known as North-african mastigure Scientific name : Uromastyx acanthinura Genus : Dabb lizards
North african spiny dabb lizard, A species of Dabb lizards
Also known as:
North-african mastigure
Scientific name: Uromastyx acanthinura
Genus: Dabb lizards
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Factumquintus , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0-DE /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
North african spiny dabb lizard primarily inhabit arid regions, adapting to this harsh environment by undergoing estivation during the hottest months, demonstrating a remarkable survival mechanism. A predominantly herbivorous species, their diet consists mainly of flowers and leaves. Interestingly, they possess a unique defense posture, tucking their body into a ball while swinging their spiked tail towards threats.
General Info
Lifespan
15-30 years
Diet
North african spiny dabb lizard is dominantly herbivorous, primarily consuming green vegetation like leaves and shoots. Fruits, flowers, and occasionally insects augment its varied diet, which requires high calcium and low protein intakes.
Appearance
The north african spiny dabb lizard is a medium-sized reptile, with a robust, elongated, spiky tail and a short, rounded snout. Its scales are thick and rough, mostly yellow to orange, often with brown or black dots. Males boast a vibrant striped pattern, while females are less brightly colored. With a streamlined body shape, this ground-dwelling species exhibits strong hind legs for diggings and an absence of pronounced neck.
Behavior
North african spiny dabb lizard is a diurnal, burrow-dwelling reptile, which utilizes its strong limbs for digging. Solitary by nature, it displays territorial behavior, signaling threats with tail-thrashing to ward off intruders. Balancing their herbivorous diet, they engage in sun-basking for necessary warmth and vitamin D. Their survival relies heavily on their capability to endure prolonged water scarcity.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Factumquintus , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0-DE /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Dragons Genus
Dabb lizards Species
North african spiny dabb lizard