Pedioplanis
Pedioplanis·Lacertidae
Pedioplanis is a genus of lizards belonging to the family Lacertidae, with all species being endemic to southern Africa. These lizards are commonly known as sand lizards and are characterized by their adaptations to arid and semi-arid environments. Their diversity is reflected in the 16 recognized species, each with specific adaptations and distributions within the southern African region.
Key Facts
- ›Pedioplanis is a genus of lizards within the family Lacertidae.
- ›All species of Pedioplanis are found exclusively in southern Africa.
- ›There are 16 recognized valid species within the Pedioplanis genus.
- ›Common names for species include sand lizards, sandveld lizards, and specific regional or discoverer names.
- ›The genus was first described by Fitzinger in 1843.
- ›Several species were originally described in genera other than Pedioplanis.
Sand Lizard, Sandveld Lizard
Southern Africa
About Pedioplanis
Pedioplanis is a genus of lizards belonging to the family Lacertidae. All species within this genus are endemic to southern Africa, a region characterized by diverse landscapes ranging from arid deserts to semi-arid savannas.
Taxonomy and Diversity
The genus Pedioplanis was first formally described by Fitzinger in 1843. It currently encompasses 16 valid species, reflecting a significant diversification within the southern African herpetofauna. Some species were originally classified under different genera before being reassigned to Pedioplanis. Common names for various species include Angolan sand lizard, Bocage's sand lizard, short-headed sand lizard, Burchell's sand lizard, and Kaokoland sand lizard, among others, often reflecting their geographic origin or distinguishing physical features.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pedioplanis?
Pedioplanis is a genus of lizards belonging to the family Lacertidae. All species within this genus are native to southern Africa.
How many species are in the Pedioplanis genus?
There are currently 16 valid species recognized within the Pedioplanis genus. These species exhibit various adaptations and distributions across southern Africa.
Where are Pedioplanis lizards found?
Pedioplanis lizards are endemic to southern Africa. This region encompasses a variety of habitats where these species have evolved.
What are some common names for Pedioplanis species?
Common names for species within the Pedioplanis genus include Angolan sand lizard, Bocage's sand lizard, short-headed sand lizard, Burchell's sand lizard, and Kaokoland sand lizard, among others.
When was the genus Pedioplanis first described?
The genus Pedioplanis was first formally described by Fitzinger in 1843. Some species within the genus were initially placed in different genera before being reclassified.