Latastia johnstonii
Latastia johnstonii, also known as Johnston's long-tailed lizard, is a species found in East Africa, inhabiting grasslands and savannas. Adults typically reach a total length of 15-20 cm, with juveniles exhibiting a distinctive red tail that fades with age. This diurnal and fast-moving lizard primarily feeds on invertebrates.
Key Facts
- ›Native to East Africa, including countries like Malawi, Tanzania, and Zambia.
- ›Adults measure between 15-20 cm in total length, with the tail comprising 65-75% of this length.
- ›Juveniles have a red tail that gradually loses its color as they mature.
- ›Inhabits grassland and savanna environments at altitudes between 330 and 1,000 meters.
- ›A terrestrial and diurnal species, known for its speed.
- ›Feeds on a diet of invertebrates.
Johnston's Long-Tailed Lizard, Malawi Long-Tailed Lizard, Nyasaland Long-Tailed Lizard
Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe
- Keeled Dorsal Scales Arranged In 39–52 Rows At Midbody.
- Juveniles Have A Red Tail That Fades In Adulthood.
- Adult Total Length Is 15–20 cm.
- Tail Length Is 65–75% of the Total Length.
Invertebrates
Terrestrial, Diurnal, Fast-Moving
About Latastia johnstonii
Latastia johnstonii, commonly known as Johnston's long-tailed lizard, is a species of lizard belonging to the Lacertidae family. This species is native to East Africa and is named in honor of the British explorer Harry Johnston.
Description and Characteristics
Adults of Latastia johnstonii typically reach a total length of 15 to 20 centimeters, with the tail constituting a significant portion of this, ranging from 65% to 75% of the total length. A notable characteristic is the tail coloration: juveniles possess a red tail, a feature that gradually fades as they mature into adulthood. The dorsal scales are keeled and arranged in 39 to 52 rows at midbody.
Distribution and Habitat
The geographic range of Latastia johnstonii extends across several East African nations, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The preferred natural habitats for this species are grassland and savanna environments. They are typically found at altitudes between 330 and 1,000 meters (approximately 1,080 to 3,280 feet).
Ecology and Behavior
Latastia johnstonii is a terrestrial lizard, meaning it lives on the ground. It is diurnal, exhibiting activity primarily during the day, and is characterized by its fast-moving nature. Its diet consists mainly of invertebrates. The species reproduces by laying eggs (oviparous), with a clutch size usually ranging from three to four eggs.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common names for Latastia johnstonii?
Latastia johnstonii is commonly referred to as Johnston's long-tailed lizard, the Malawi long-tailed lizard, and the Nyasaland long-tailed lizard.
Where can Latastia johnstonii be found?
This lizard species is distributed across several East African countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
What kind of habitat does Latastia johnstonii prefer?
Latastia johnstonii thrives in grassland and savanna environments. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 330 to 1,000 meters above sea level.
What is the typical size of an adult Latastia johnstonii?
Adults of this species have a total length, including the tail, of approximately 15 to 20 centimeters. The tail itself makes up a significant portion, about 65% to 75% of the total body length.
What does Latastia johnstonii eat?
The diet of Latastia johnstonii consists primarily of invertebrates. They are insectivorous lizards.
How does the tail color change in Latastia johnstonii?
Juveniles of Latastia johnstonii are characterized by a red tail. This vibrant color gradually fades as the lizard grows and reaches adulthood.
Is Latastia johnstonii active during the day or night?
Latastia johnstonii is a diurnal species, meaning it is active and primarily hunts during daylight hours. It is also known for being a fast-moving lizard.
What is the reproductive method of Latastia johnstonii?
This species is oviparous, which means it reproduces by laying eggs. A clutch typically contains three or four eggs.
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