Devaka's fan-throated lizard
Devaka's fan-throated lizard is an agamid lizard endemic to Sri Lanka, first discovered in the Puttalam district. While also reported in Tamil Nadu, India, its identification there is not definitively established. This species is recognized for its distinctive fan-throated display, a characteristic of its genus, and inhabits open scrub jungle environments.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to Sri Lanka, with potential presence in Tamil Nadu, India.
- ›First discovered in the Puttalam district of Sri Lanka.
- ›Named in honor of conservation biologist Dr. Devaka K. Weerakoon.
- ›Inhabits open scrub jungle environments.
- ›Belongs to the agamid family of lizards.
Devaka's Fan-Throated Lizard
Sri Lanka, India
Scrub Jungle, Open Scrub
- A Species of Agamid Lizard.
- Possesses A Fan-Throated Display Characteristic of Its Genus.
Exhibits A Fan-Throated Display.
About Devaka's fan-throated lizard
Devaka's fan-throated lizard (Sitana devakai) is a species of agamid lizard endemic to the island of Sri Lanka. This species was first documented in the Puttalam district and is recognized by its distinctive fan-throated display, a characteristic feature of its genus. While there have been reports of its presence in Tamil Nadu, India, its identification in that region has not been definitively established.
The species was named in honor of Dr. Devaka K. Weerakoon, a notable conservation biologist and Professor of Zoology at the University of Colombo. Previously, Sitana devakai was often considered a subspecies or a mere color variation of the more widely distributed Sitana ponticeriana. However, it is now acknowledged as a distinct species.
Habitat and Description
Devaka's fan-throated lizard is found in open scrub jungle environments. These arid or semi-arid habitats provide the necessary ecological niche for the species to thrive. As an agamid lizard, it shares characteristics with other members of the family, though specific physical details beyond its fan-throated appendage are not extensively detailed in available records.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Devaka's fan-throated lizard found?
Devaka's fan-throated lizard is primarily found in Sri Lanka, having been first discovered in the Puttalam district. There are also unconfirmed reports of its presence in Tamil Nadu, India.
What type of habitat does this lizard prefer?
This species is typically found in open scrub jungle environments. These areas provide the necessary cover and conditions for its survival.
Why is this lizard called Devaka's fan-throated lizard?
The species was named in honor of Dr. Devaka K. Weerakoon, a prominent conservation biologist and Professor of Zoology at the University of Colombo. The 'fan-throated' aspect refers to a characteristic display common in its genus.
Is Devaka's fan-throated lizard a distinct species?
It was previously considered a subspecies or color variation of the more widely distributed *Sitana ponticeriana*. However, it is now recognized as a distinct species.
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