Gallotia caesaris
Boettger's lizard, scientifically known as Gallotia caesaris, is a species of wall lizard native to the western Canary Islands of El Hierro and La Gomera. Characterized by its preference for rocky areas, shrubland, and forests, this oviparous reptile is recognized by its two subspecies. It has also been introduced to Madeira, Portugal.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to the western Canary Islands, specifically El Hierro and La Gomera.
- ›Prefers habitats such as rocky areas, shrubland, and forests.
- ›Is oviparous, with females laying clutches of 1-5 eggs.
- ›Has two recognized subspecies: Gallotia caesaris caesaris and Gallotia caesaris gomerae.
- ›Has been introduced to the Portuguese island of Madeira.
Boettger's Lizard
El Hierro, La Gomera, Madeira
About Gallotia caesaris
Boettger's Lizard (Gallotia caesaris)
Boettger's lizard, scientifically classified as Gallotia caesaris, is a species of wall lizard belonging to the family Lacertidae. This reptile is native to the western Canary Islands, specifically inhabiting the islands of El Hierro and La Gomera. Its preferred natural habitats include rocky areas, shrubland, and forests, and it can be found at elevations ranging from sea level up to 1,500 meters.
Taxonomy and Subspecies
The species is recognized to have two valid subspecies: Gallotia caesaris caesaris, endemic to El Hierro, and Gallotia caesaris gomerae, found on La Gomera. These islands represent the core of its natural range, with a closely related species, Gallotia galloti, occupying neighboring islands such as Tenerife and La Palma.
Reproduction
Gallotia caesaris is oviparous, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs. A sexually mature female lizard is capable of producing up to three clutches of eggs within a single year. Each clutch typically contains a small number of eggs, ranging from one to five.
Distribution and Introduction
Beyond its native Canary Islands, Boettger's lizard has also been introduced by human activity to the Portuguese island of Madeira. This introduction highlights the species' adaptability to new environments, though its primary range remains the western Canary archipelago. The specific name, caesaris, honors German malacologist Caesar Rudolf Boettger.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Boettger's lizard?
Boettger's lizard (Gallotia caesaris) is a species of wall lizard belonging to the family Lacertidae. It is native to the Canary Islands and is known for its preference for rocky and shrubland environments.
Where is Gallotia caesaris found?
This species is naturally found on two of the western Canary Islands: El Hierro and La Gomera. It has also been introduced by humans to the Portuguese island of Madeira.
What are the habitats of Boettger's lizard?
Gallotia caesaris thrives in a variety of natural habitats, including rocky areas, shrubland, and forests. These lizards can be found at altitudes ranging from sea level up to 1,500 meters (4,900 feet).
How does Gallotia caesaris reproduce?
Boettger's lizard is oviparous, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs. A sexually mature female can lay up to three clutches per year, with each clutch typically containing between one and five eggs.
Are there different types of Boettger's lizards?
Yes, there are two recognized subspecies of Gallotia caesaris. These are Gallotia caesaris caesaris, found on El Hierro, and Gallotia caesaris gomerae, found on La Gomera.
Related Lizards
Boettger's lizard
Boettger's lizard (Gallotia caesaris) is a species of wall lizard endemic to the western Canary Islands, specifically El Hierro and La Gomera. This oviparous reptile inhabits rocky areas, shrubland, and forests, and is known for its capacity to lay multiple clutches of eggs per year. It is closely related to the Gallotia galloti species found on neighboring islands.
Anolis leachii
Anolis leachii, also known as the Antigua Bank tree anole or Leach's anole, is a lizard species endemic to the Caribbean, specifically Antigua and Barbuda. This arboreal species is characterized by its bright green coloration that fades to greyish-brown on its tail, and a grey to brown head with yellowish-orange dewlaps. It inhabits various environments, from forests and shrublands to human-disturbed areas like pastures and farms, provided vertical perching surfaces are available.
Florida worm lizard
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