Uromastyx aegyptia
Believed to be in decline·Not specified
The Uromastyx aegyptia, also known as the Egyptian mastigure or Egyptian spiny-tailed lizard, is a large agamid lizard native to North Africa and the Middle East. It inhabits arid, rocky environments and is characterized by its spiny tail and robust build. Historically, its skin was used for leather, and its meat was a source of protein for local populations.
Key Facts
- ›One of the largest species in its genus, with males reaching up to 76 cm in total length.
- ›Found in Egypt, Israel, Syria, Jordan, the Arabian Peninsula, Iraq, and Iran.
- ›Inhabits open, flat, gravelly, stony, and rocky areas at elevations up to 1,500 meters.
- ›Historically utilized for its skin to make leather and its meat as a protein source.
- ›Considered to be in decline due to habitat loss and over-harvesting.
Egyptian Mastigure, Egyptian Spiny-Tailed Lizard, Leptien's Mastigure
Egypt, Israel, Syria, Jordan, Arabian Peninsula, Iraq, Iran
Arid Regions, Gravelly Areas, Stony Areas, Rocky Areas, Open Flat Areas
- One of the Largest Members of the Genus Uromastyx.
- Average Total Length For Males Is 76 cm , Including the Tail.
- Characterized By A Spiny Tail.
Habitat Loss, Over-Harvesting
About Uromastyx aegyptia
The Uromastyx aegyptia, commonly known as the Egyptian mastigure or Egyptian spiny-tailed lizard, is a species of lizard belonging to the Agamidae family. This species is native to the arid and semi-arid regions of North Africa and the Middle East. It is recognized as one of the larger members within its genus, with males reaching an average total length of up to 76 cm (30 inches).
Habitat and Distribution
Uromastyx aegyptia inhabits open, flat areas characterized by gravel, stones, and rocks. These lizards can be found at elevations ranging up to 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) above sea level. Their geographic range includes Egypt east of the Nile River, Israel, Syria, Jordan, the Arabian Peninsula, Iraq, and Iran. Despite this broad distribution, the species has a patchy presence and is considered rare in many parts of its range.
Conservation and Human Interaction
The Uromastyx aegyptia is currently believed to be in decline. The primary threats contributing to this decline are habitat loss, which diminishes their available living space and resources, and over-harvesting, likely due to human exploitation. Historically, the species held economic importance for local populations. Its robust skin was utilized by Bedouins to create leather, and its meat was a source of protein. The species also has recognized subspecies, including Uromastyx aegyptia aegyptia, Uromastyx aegyptia leptieni, and Uromastyx aegyptia microlepis.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common names for Uromastyx aegyptia?
Uromastyx aegyptia is commonly known as the Egyptian mastigure or the Egyptian spiny-tailed lizard. A subspecies, Uromastyx aegyptia leptieni, is also referred to as Leptien's mastigure.
Where is the Uromastyx aegyptia found geographically?
This species is distributed across North Africa and the Middle East, specifically in Egypt east of the Nile, Israel, Syria, Jordan, the Arabian Peninsula, Iraq, and Iran. Its distribution is described as patchy and rare in most areas.
What kind of habitat does the Uromastyx aegyptia prefer?
Uromastyx aegyptia thrives in open, flat environments characterized by gravel, stones, and rocks. They can be found at elevations reaching up to 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) above sea level.
What is the typical size of an adult Uromastyx aegyptia?
Uromastyx aegyptia is one of the larger lizards in its genus. Adult males typically reach an average total length of approximately 76 cm (30 inches), which includes the tail.
What are the main threats to the Uromastyx aegyptia population?
The Uromastyx aegyptia is believed to be in decline due to significant threats. These include habitat loss, which reduces their available living space, and over-harvesting, likely for economic or other uses.
Were Uromastyx aegyptia ever used economically by humans?
Yes, the Uromastyx aegyptia has had economic uses for local populations. Its strong skin was historically made into leather by Bedouins, and its meat was considered a valuable alternative source of protein.
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