Small-horned lizard (Cophotis ceylanica)
The Small-horned lizard (Cophotis ceylanica), also known as the Ceylon deaf agama, is an agamid species native to the montane regions of Sri Lanka. This slow-moving lizard is characterized by its compressed body, narrow head with a developed nuchal crest, and a short, prehensile tail. It inhabits moss-covered tree trunks within forested areas.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to the montane regions of Sri Lanka.
- ›Possesses a compressed body, narrow head, and a long nuchal crest.
- ›Has a short, prehensile tail and enlarged dorsal scales.
- ›Typically found on moss-covered tree trunks in forested habitats.
- ›Social interactions can include head-bobbing as a response to threats or aggression.
- ›Gives birth to live young, usually four to five per litter.
Ceylon Deaf Agama
Sri Lanka
Montane Forests, Tree Trunks, Forested Mosaic
- Body Is Compressed.
- Head Is Narrow.
- Long Dorso-Nuchal Crest Developed.
- Temporal Scales With Three To Five Large Conical Scales.
- Tympanum Absent.
- Tail Is Short and Prehensile.
- Dorsal Scales Enlarged.
- Gular Sacs Laterally Compressed.
- Some Individuals Show Orange Patches.
- Pre-Anal and Femoral Pores Absent.
- Dorsum Is Olive Green With Darker Markings, Forming Three Bands On Body and More On Tail.
- A Light Spot On Nape.
- A Broad Stripe Along Anterior of Body and One In Front of the Eyes.
- Limbs Are Dark-Banded.
- Slow-Moving.
- Social Interactions Include Head-Bobbing.
- Head-Bobbing Used In Response To Threat.
- Head-Bobbing Used In Aggressive Encounters Between Males.
About Small-horned lizard (Cophotis ceylanica)
The Small-horned lizard, scientifically known as Cophotis ceylanica and also called the Ceylon deaf agama, is a species of lizard endemic to the island of Sri Lanka. This agamid lizard is adapted to life in the montane regions of the country, preferring to inhabit moss-covered tree trunks within its forested environment.
Physical Characteristics
The Cophotis ceylanica is characterized by its distinctly compressed body and a narrow head. It possesses a prominent, long dorso-nuchal crest and enlarged dorsal scales. A notable feature is its short, prehensile tail, which aids in arboreal locomotion. The species lacks a visible tympanum and pre-anal or femoral pores. Coloration typically includes an olive-green dorsum adorned with darker markings that form bands across the body and tail. Additional distinguishing marks include a light spot on the nape and stripes extending from the anterior body and in front of the eyes, with dark banding on the limbs.
Distribution and Habitat
This lizard is found exclusively in the montane zones of Sri Lanka. Its preferred habitat consists of mossy tree trunks within forest mosaics, often incorporating elements like Cyperus and hedges. Documented locations where the Small-horned lizard has been observed include Nuwara Eliya, Horton Plains, Hakgala, Adam's Peak, and the Knuckles Mountain Range.
Behavior and Reproduction
The Small-horned lizard is a slow-moving species. Its social behaviors include head-bobbing, which serves as a signaling mechanism in response to threats or during aggressive interactions between males. Unlike many reptiles, Cophotis ceylanica is viviparous, giving birth to live young. Litters typically consist of four to five offspring, and the breeding season occurs between May and August.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name for the Small-horned lizard?
The scientific name for the Small-horned lizard is Cophotis ceylanica. It is also commonly referred to as the Ceylon deaf agama.
Where is the Small-horned lizard found?
The Small-horned lizard is endemic to Sri Lanka. It is specifically found in the montane regions of the island, with documented localities including Nuwara Eliya, Horton Plains, Hakgala, Adam's Peak, and the Knuckles Mountain Range.
What is the habitat of the Small-horned lizard?
This lizard is a slow-moving species that inhabits moss-covered tree trunks within montane forests. It is often found in forest mosaics that include Cyperus and hedges.
How does the Small-horned lizard behave socially?
Social interactions observed in the Small-horned lizard include head-bobbing, which can be exhibited as a response to threats or between males during aggressive encounters.
How does the Small-horned lizard reproduce?
The Small-horned lizard is viviparous, meaning it gives birth to live young. Litters typically consist of four to five offspring, and births occur between May and August.
What are the physical characteristics of the Small-horned lizard?
The Small-horned lizard has a compressed body and a narrow head with a prominent dorso-nuchal crest. It features enlarged dorsal scales, a short prehensile tail, and laterally compressed gular sacs. Its coloration is generally olive green with darker markings, often forming bands on the body and tail, and it may have a light spot on the nape and stripes around the eyes.
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