Ophisops elegans
Ophisops elegans, commonly known as the snake-eyed lizard, is a species of lizard belonging to the Lacertidae family. It is characterized by its smooth or slightly rugose head shields, a distinct gular fold, and variable dorsal scales. This lizard inhabits grasslands, shrublands, and forests across the Mediterranean region and Central Asia.
Key Facts
- ›The snake-eyed lizard is a member of the Lacertidae family.
- ›It is found across the Mediterranean region and Central Asia.
- ›Distinguishing features include smooth or slightly rugose head shields and a variable gular fold.
- ›The hind limb reaches approximately the ear in males and the shoulder in females.
- ›Ophisops elegans is oviparous, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs.
- ›Its coloration is typically olive or bronzy with black spots, sometimes forming streaks or a network pattern.
Snake-Eyed Lizard
E Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Se Bulgaria, Ne Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, Algeria, Libya, Egypt, W Syria, Lebanon, Israel, W Jordan, Iraq, Iran, N Pakistan, Nw India
- Head Moderate, Feebly Depressed.
- Upper Head-Shields Smooth Or Slightly Rugose.
- Nostril Lateral, Pierced Between On Upper and A Lower Nasal.
- Four Supra-Oculars, First and Fourth Very Small.
- Usually Two Large Supratemporal Shields Bordering the Parietal.
- A Large Tympanic Shield.
- A Gular Fold May Be Distinguishable; Collar Absent Or Feebly Marked.
- Dorsal Scales Variable In Size, As Large As Or Larger Than the Laterals.
- 30 To 40 Scales Round the Middle of the Body, Ventrals Included.
- A More Or Less Enlarged Postero-Median Preanal Plate.
- Hind Limb Reaches About the Ear In the Male, the Shoulder Or A Little Beyond In the Female.
- 7 To 12 Femoral Pores On Each Side.
- Tail About Twice As Long As Head and Body.
- Olive Or Bronzy Above, With Black Spots Usually Forming Longitudinal Series, Sometimes Forming A Network.
- Frequently One Or Two Light Longitudinal Streaks On Each Side.
- Lower Surfaces White.
- Snout To Vent: 2 Inches .
- Tail: 4 Inches .
About Ophisops elegans
Ophisops elegans: The Snake-Eyed Lizard
Ophisops elegans, commonly referred to as the snake-eyed lizard, is a species of reptile belonging to the Lacertidae family. This lizard is notable for its distinctive physical characteristics, including a moderate, slightly depressed head with smooth or slightly rugose upper head-shields. Its coloration is typically olive or bronzy on its upper surfaces, often adorned with black spots that can arrange into longitudinal series, a network pattern, or distinct streaks. The ventral side of the lizard is white.
The species has a wide geographic distribution, being endemic to the Mediterranean region and Central Asia. Its preferred natural habitats include grassland, shrubland, and forest environments, where it can be found at altitudes ranging from 400 to 2,000 meters. The snake-eyed lizard reproduces by laying eggs, classifying it as oviparous.
Physically, Ophisops elegans can reach a snout-to-vent length of approximately 5 centimeters (2 inches), with a tail that is roughly twice the length of its head and body, measuring around 10 centimeters (4 inches). The hind limb's reach varies between sexes, extending to about the ear in males and to the shoulder or slightly beyond in females. The species also possesses 7 to 12 femoral pores on each side. While specific dietary habits and lifespan are not detailed in all accounts, its presence across diverse habitats highlights its adaptability within its extensive range.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the snake-eyed lizard?
Ophisops elegans, commonly known as the snake-eyed lizard, is a species of lizard found in the family Lacertidae. It is distinguished by its head shield characteristics and limb length relative to body size.
Where is Ophisops elegans found?
This species is endemic to a wide range encompassing the Mediterranean region and Central Asia. Its distribution includes countries like Georgia, Armenia, Bulgaria, Greece, Turkey, Cyprus, Algeria, Libya, Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Jordan, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, and India.
What are the physical characteristics of Ophisops elegans?
Ophisops elegans has a moderate, slightly depressed head with smooth or slightly rugose upper head-shields. Its coloration is typically olive or bronzy above, often with black spots that can form longitudinal series, a network, or streaks. The lower surfaces are white.
What is the habitat of the snake-eyed lizard?
The preferred natural habitats for Ophisops elegans include grassland, shrubland, and forest environments. They are typically found at altitudes ranging from 400 to 2,000 meters.
How does Ophisops elegans reproduce?
Ophisops elegans is oviparous, which means that reproduction occurs through the laying of eggs.
What is the size of Ophisops elegans?
The snake-eyed lizard can reach a snout-to-vent length of approximately 2 inches (5 cm), with a tail that is about twice the length of the head and body, measuring around 4 inches (10 cm).
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