Gallotia galloti
No subspecies currently considered endangered, but G. g. insulanagae is considered vulnerable.·Oviparous
Gallotia galloti, commonly known as Gallot's lizard or the Tenerife lizard, is a species of wall lizard native to the Canary Islands of Tenerife and La Palma. This diurnal lizard is distinguished by the striking pale blue patches on adult males and is an important pollinator and seed disperser within its habitat. While generally common, local populations can be impacted by predation and human activities.
Key Facts
- ›Native to the Canary Islands of Tenerife and La Palma.
- ›Adult males have distinctive pale blue patches on their head and flanks.
- ›Diurnal and active during the day.
- ›Feeds on plants (leaves, flowers, fruit) and insects.
- ›Plays a role as a pollinator and seed disperser.
- ›Main predator is the feral cat.
Gallot's Lizard, Tenerife Lizard, Western Canaries Lizard
Tenerife, La Palma, Canary Islands
Dry, Sunny Places, All Habitats, Sea Level, High Altitudes
- Males Are Larger Than Females, Reaching Up To 40 cm In Most Subspecies.
- Adult Males of the G. Galloti Palmae Subspecies Reach A Maximum of 30 cm.
- Adult Males Have Characteristic Pale Blue Patches Along the Head and Flank, Sometimes With Blue Spots On the Body.
- Among the Smaller Species Within the Western Clade of Its Genus.
Leaves, Buds, Flowers, Nectar, Fruit, Insects, Invertebrates
- Diurnal, Active During the Day.
- Can Become Habituated To People In Popular Tourist Areas.
- May Be Considered A Nuisance In Vineyards and Orchards Due To Its Preference For Ripe Fruit.
Feral Cat, Common Kestrel, Common Raven
Trapping, Poisoning
About Gallotia galloti
Gallotia galloti: The Tenerife Lizard
Gallotia galloti, commonly known as Gallot's lizard, the Tenerife lizard, or the Western Canaries lizard, is a species of wall lizard native to the Canary Islands, specifically the islands of Tenerife and La Palma. It belongs to the genus Gallotia and is part of the western clade within this group. The species is named in honor of D. Gallot, an amateur naturalist who collected the initial specimen.
Description and Subspecies
Adult males of Gallotia galloti are typically larger than females, with strong males capable of reaching up to 40 centimeters in snout-to-tail length. A notable characteristic of adult males across all subspecies is the presence of pale blue patches on their head and flanks, which can sometimes extend as spots onto the body. The subspecies Gallotia galloti palmae, found on La Palma, is smaller, with adult males reaching a maximum length of only 30 centimeters. Four subspecies are recognized: G. g. eisentrauti (Northern Tenerife lizard), G. g. galloti (Southern Tenerife lizard), G. g. insulanagae (Anaga lizard), and G. g. palmae (La Palma lizard).
Habitat and Behavior
This species is diurnal, meaning it is active during the day. Gallotia galloti thrives in a variety of habitats across the western Canary Islands, from sea level up to altitudes of 3,000 meters, preferring dry, sunny locations. Its diet is varied, consisting primarily of plant matter such as leaves, buds, flowers, nectar, and fruit, but it also consumes insects and other invertebrates. This feeding habit makes the lizard an important pollinator and seed disperser within its ecosystem. The lizards have become somewhat habituated to humans in popular areas like Teide National Park due to their curious nature and attraction to food.
Ecology and Conservation
The breeding season for Gallotia galloti occurs between April and August, during which females lay clutches of 3 to 6 eggs. The main natural predator of the species is the feral cat, though the common kestrel and common raven also prey on them. While generally common, local populations can experience declines due to predation and occasional human-induced issues, such as being trapped or poisoned in agricultural areas like vineyards and orchards where they might be considered a nuisance. Despite these localized threats, no subspecies are currently listed as endangered, although G. g. insulanagae is considered a vulnerable taxon but appears stable due to its inaccessible habitat within the Parque Rural de Anaga.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common names for Gallotia galloti?
Gallotia galloti is commonly known as Gallot's lizard, the Tenerife lizard, and the Western Canaries lizard. These names reflect its discoverer and its primary geographical locations.
Where is Gallotia galloti found?
This species is native to the Canary Islands, specifically the islands of Tenerife and La Palma. It inhabits a wide range of environments across these islands, from sea level up to high altitudes.
What does Gallotia galloti eat?
Its diet consists mainly of plant matter, including leaves, buds, flowers, nectar, and fruit. It also supplements its diet with insects and other invertebrates found within its habitat.
What are the distinguishing features of adult male Gallotia galloti?
Adult males are larger than females and possess characteristic pale blue patches along their head and flanks, sometimes with additional blue spots on their body. These colors can vary between subspecies.
What are the main predators of Gallotia galloti?
The primary predator of Gallotia galloti is the feral cat. Other significant predators include the common kestrel and the common raven, which prey on the lizards in their natural environment.
How does Gallotia galloti contribute to its ecosystem?
Gallotia galloti is an important pollinator and seed disperser due to its diet of plant parts, including nectar and fruit. This role is crucial for the propagation of various plant species within its island habitats.
Are there different types of Gallotia galloti?
Yes, there are four recognized subspecies of Gallotia galloti. These include variations found in northern Tenerife, southern Tenerife, the Anaga region, and on the island of La Palma.
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