Acanthodactylus blanfordii
Acanthodactylus blanfordii, commonly known as Blanford's fringe-fingered lizard, is a species endemic to the Middle East and India. It belongs to the Lacertidae family and is distinguished by its placement in the newly recognized blanfordii group within the Acanthodactylus genus. This lizard is oviparous, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to the Middle East and India.
- ›Belongs to the Lacertidae family.
- ›Recently reclassified into the blanfordii group.
- ›Previously placed in the cantoris group.
- ›Reproduces by laying eggs (oviparous).
- ›Named in honor of naturalist William Thomas Blanford.
Blanford's Fringe-Fingered Lizard
Se Iran, S Afghanistan, Sw Pakistan, N Oman, India
About Acanthodactylus blanfordii
Acanthodactylus blanfordii, commonly referred to as Blanford's fringe-fingered lizard, is a reptile species belonging to the family Lacertidae. This lizard is native to a range that spans across the Middle East and into India, with specific recorded locations including Southeastern Iran, Southern Afghanistan, Southwestern Pakistan, Northern Oman (in the Muscat region), and India.
Taxonomy and Classification
Recent genetic research has led to the reclassification of Acanthodactylus blanfordii. It is now recognized as part of a newly established blanfordii group within the Eastern clade of the Acanthodactylus genus. This distinction is significant as this group has been found to be genetically separate from the cantoris group, where A. blanfordii was previously categorized based on morphological characteristics alone.
Etymology
The specific name, blanfordii, as well as its common name, Blanford's fringe-fingered lizard, were chosen to honor the English naturalist William Thomas Blanford. Blanford was a notable figure who was part of the Geological Survey of India and lived from 1832 to 1905.
Reproduction
In terms of reproduction, Acanthodactylus blanfordii is oviparous. This means that the species reproduces by laying eggs.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acanthodactylus blanfordii commonly called?
Acanthodactylus blanfordii is commonly known as Blanford's fringe-fingered lizard. This common name honors the English naturalist William Thomas Blanford.
Where is Blanford's fringe-fingered lizard found?
Blanford's fringe-fingered lizard is found in Southeastern Iran, Southern Afghanistan, Southwestern Pakistan, Northern Oman (specifically the Muscat region), and India. Its type locality is recorded as 'Perse et Béloutchistan'.
What is the scientific classification of Acanthodactylus blanfordii?
Acanthodactylus blanfordii is classified within the family Lacertidae. Recent genetic studies have placed it in a newly recognized blanfordii group, which is genetically distinct from the cantoris group where it was previously categorized based on physical characteristics.
How does Acanthodactylus blanfordii reproduce?
Acanthodactylus blanfordii is oviparous, which means it reproduces by laying eggs. Further details on its reproductive cycle are not provided in the available information.
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