Pleske's racerunner
Pleske's racerunner (Eremias pleskei) is a lizard species native to the Armenian plateau, inhabiting desert environments at moderate altitudes. This oviparous species is named in honor of Russian zoologist Fedor Dmitrievich Pleske. It is found across Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and Turkey.
Key Facts
- ›Native to the Armenian plateau.
- ›Inhabits desert environments.
- ›Found in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and Turkey.
- ›Reproduction is oviparous (egg-laying).
- ›Named after Russian zoologist Fedor Dmitrievich Pleske.
Pleske's Racerunner, Trans-Caucasian Racerunner
Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Turkey
About Pleske's racerunner
Pleske's racerunner, scientifically designated as Eremias pleskei, is a species of lizard belonging to the family Lacertidae. This lizard is native to the Armenian plateau, a region spanning parts of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and Turkey. Its common names include Pleske's racerunner and the trans-Caucasian racerunner.
Habitat and Distribution
The natural habitat of Eremias pleskei is characterized by desert environments. These lizards are typically found at altitudes ranging from 500 to 1,700 meters (approximately 1,600 to 5,600 feet). The species' distribution covers a significant portion of the Armenian plateau, extending into the territories of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and Turkey.
Taxonomy and Naming
The specific name, pleskei, was chosen in honor of the Russian zoologist Fedor Dmitrievich Pleske (1858–1932). His work in zoology likely contributed to the understanding and classification of this species.
Reproduction
Pleske's racerunner is an oviparous species, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs. This reproductive strategy is common among many lizard species and is a key characteristic of its life cycle.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pleske's racerunner?
Pleske's racerunner, scientifically known as Eremias pleskei, is a species of lizard belonging to the Lacertidae family. It is native to the Armenian plateau and is recognized for its desert habitat.
Where does Pleske's racerunner live?
This lizard species is naturally found in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and Turkey. Its preferred habitat is desert regions.
What kind of environment does Pleske's racerunner prefer?
Pleske's racerunner thrives in desert environments. It is typically found at altitudes ranging from 500 to 1,700 meters (1,600 to 5,600 feet).
How does Pleske's racerunner reproduce?
Pleske's racerunner is oviparous, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs. This is a common reproductive method among many reptile species.
Who is Pleske's racerunner named after?
The species is named in honor of the Russian zoologist Fedor Dmitrievich Pleske (1858–1932). His contributions to zoology likely influenced its scientific classification.
Related Lizards

Acanthodactylus cantoris
The Indian fringe-fingered lizard (Acanthodactylus cantoris) is a terrestrial species endemic to Asia, primarily found in sandy desert and shrubland habitats. It is characterized by its acutely pointed snout, keeled dorsal scales, and strong digital denticulations. This oviparous lizard burrows in the sand for protection and its young have distinctive white longitudinal lines on a blackish background.
Acanthodactylus scutellatus
The Acanthodactylus scutellatus, commonly known as the Nidua fringe-fingered lizard, is a small lizard species endemic to northern Africa and the Middle East. It is recognized by its unique ventral scale arrangement and its adeptness at burrowing in loose sand for shelter. This diurnal species breeds in late winter, with females laying clutches of 3-6 eggs in the spring.
Agama anchietae
Agama anchietae, commonly known as Anchieta's agama or the western rock agama, is a species of lizard native to southern Africa. It is characterized by its cryptic coloration, a wider head and longer tail in males due to sexual dimorphism, and a diet primarily consisting of insects, particularly ants. This species inhabits diverse environments including deserts, shrublands, and grasslands, and it reproduces by laying eggs.