Abor hills agama
The Abor Hills agama, scientifically known as Japalura austeniana, is a rare lizard species belonging to the Agamidae family, endemic to Asia. This species is characterized by its notably long tail relative to its body length. It has been documented in parts of India and Bhutan, with a significant rediscovery occurring in 2006.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to Asia, specifically found in Bhutan and India (Assam, Arunachal Pradesh).
- ›The holotype, a female, measured 9 cm snout-to-vent length with a tail of 23 cm.
- ›The species is oviparous, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs.
- ›It was rediscovered in 2006 after previously being known only from its holotype specimen.
- ›Its scientific name, austeniana, honors English topographer Henry Haversham Godwin-Austen.
Abor Hills Agama, Annandale's Dragon
Bhutan, India
- Female Holotype Had A Snout-To-Vent Length of 9 cm .
- Tail Is Very Long, Measuring 23 cm In the Holotype.
- Considered A Rare Species.
About Abor hills agama
The Abor Hills agama, scientifically designated as Japalura austeniana, is a seldom-seen lizard species belonging to the family Agamidae. This species is found exclusively in Asia. Its common names, Abor Hills agama and Annandale's dragon, reflect its geographical origin and historical recognition.
Rediscovery and Distribution
The Japalura austeniana was once known only from its single original specimen. However, it was rediscovered in 2006 within the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Arunachal Pradesh, India. The species' known geographic range includes Bhutan and parts of India, specifically Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. The initial collection point, or type locality, was recorded as the hills near Harmatti in Assam.
Physical Characteristics
The most detailed physical description available pertains to the holotype specimen, which was a female. This individual measured 9 cm (3.5 inches) from snout to vent. A notable characteristic of this lizard is its disproportionately long tail, which measured 23 cm (9.1 inches) in the holotype specimen.
Reproduction
Regarding its reproductive strategy, the Abor Hills agama is oviparous. This means that the species reproduces by laying eggs.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Abor Hills agama found?
The Abor Hills agama is found in Asia, specifically in Bhutan and the Indian states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. Its type locality is recorded as the hills near Harmatti, Assam.
What are the physical characteristics of the Abor Hills agama?
The known holotype specimen, a female, had a snout-to-vent length of 9 cm (3.5 inches). A distinctive feature is its very long tail, measuring 23 cm (9.1 inches).
How does the Abor Hills agama reproduce?
The Abor Hills agama is oviparous, which means it reproduces by laying eggs.
Has the Abor Hills agama always been known?
This species was considered rare and was previously known only from its original holotype specimen. It was rediscovered in 2006 at the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh.
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