Short-legged japalure
Other conservation-deserving wildlife·Oviparous
The short-legged japalure (Diploderma brevipes) is a lizard species native to Taiwan, found in mountain forest edges between 1100 and 2200 meters elevation. Adults typically reach a total length of 25 cm, with males displaying a black back adorned with yellow-green spots and stripes, while females are primarily green. This diurnal species feeds on insects and other small invertebrates.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to Taiwan.
- ›Inhabits mountain forest edges at elevations of 1100-2200 meters.
- ›Males have black backs with yellow-green spots and stripes; females are mainly green.
- ›Adults reach a total length of up to 25 cm.
- ›Diurnal and oviparous (egg-laying).
- ›Diet consists of insects and other small invertebrates.
Short-Legged Japalure
Taiwan
- Body Length Approximately 10 cm.
- Total Length Reaches Up To 25 cm.
- Sexually Dimorphic.
- Males: Black Back With Yellow-Green Spots and Stripes.
- Females: Mainly Green.
Insects, Other Small Invertebrates
Diurnal
About Short-legged japalure
The short-legged japalure, scientifically known as Diploderma brevipes, is a species of lizard native to the island of Taiwan. This reptile is specifically found in mountainous regions, typically inhabiting the edges of forests at elevations ranging from 1100 to 2200 meters above sea level.
Physical Characteristics
Adult short-legged japalures possess a body length of approximately 10 centimeters, with their total length reaching up to 25 centimeters. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females have distinct physical appearances. Males are characterized by a black back adorned with prominent yellow-green spots and stripes. In contrast, females are primarily green in coloration.
Ecology and Behavior
The short-legged japalure is a diurnal species, indicating that it is active and forages during daylight hours. Its diet consists mainly of insects and other small invertebrates that are found within its forest edge habitat. The species reproduces by laying eggs, a method of reproduction known as being oviparous.
Taxonomy and Conservation
First described by J. Linsley Gressitt in 1936, the short-legged japalure is closely related to Diploderma swinhonis. In Taiwan, this species is recognized for its conservation needs and is listed under the Taiwan Wildlife Conservation Act as "other conservation-deserving wildlife." Specific details regarding its lifespan, predators, and threats beyond its conservation status are not extensively documented in available records.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the short-legged japalure found?
The short-legged japalure is endemic to Taiwan. It is typically found in mountain forest edges at elevations ranging from 1100 to 2200 meters.
What does the short-legged japalure look like?
This species exhibits sexual dimorphism. Males have a black back with yellow-green spots and stripes, while females are predominantly green. Their body length is around 10 cm, with a total length reaching up to 25 cm.
What do short-legged japalures eat?
The diet of the short-legged japalure primarily consists of insects and other small invertebrates found within its habitat.
Is the short-legged japalure active at night?
No, the short-legged japalure is a diurnal species, meaning it is active during the daytime.
How does the short-legged japalure reproduce?
This species is oviparous, which means it reproduces by laying eggs.
What is the conservation status of the short-legged japalure?
The short-legged japalure is listed as other conservation-deserving wildlife in Taiwan's Wildlife Conservation Act.
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