Variegated mountain lizard
Details on reproduction method are not provided in the text.
The variegated mountain lizard, also known as the Himalayan dragon, is an agamid lizard found in the mountainous regions of northern India, Bhutan, and Nepal. This species is characterized by its keeled scales, a nuchal crest that extends along the back, and distinctive variegated coloration with brown or black cross bands. Males possess a small gular pouch.
Key Facts
- ›Found in northern India, Bhutan, and Nepal.
- ›Possesses a nuchal crest and a serrated ridge along the back.
- ›Males have a small gular pouch.
- ›Exhibits variegated coloration with oblique cross bands and rings.
- ›Can reach a total length of up to 12 inches.
Himalayan Dragon
Northern India, Bhutan, Nepal
- Head Covered With Small, Irregular, Keeled Shields.
- Canthus Rostralis Is Sharp.
- Throat Covered With Small Keeled Scales.
- Both Sexes Possess A Nuchal Crest of Triangular Lobes, Continuing As A Slight Serrated Ridge Along the Back.
- Males Have A Small Gular Pouch.
- Trunk Is Slightly Compressed.
- Upper Parts Have Smallish, Keeled Scales Intermixed With Larger Ones, With Points Directed Obliquely Upwards.
- Ventral Scales Are Strongly Keeled.
- Tail Scales Are Rhomboid and Keeled.
- Hind Limb Extends To the Eye When Laid Forward.
- Toes Have Keeled Scales Below.
- Back Features Alternate Brown Or Black and Grayish Or Yellowish-White Cross Bands Ascending Obliquely Backwards.
- Head Above Is Variegated With Black.
- A Light, Black-Edged Cross Band Is Present On the Inter-Orbital Space.
- A White Or Yellow Band Runs Along the Upper Lip.
- An Irregular Band Runs Along Each Side of the Neck, Confluent With Light Cross Bands.
- Gular Sac Is Black Behind.
- Tail Has Broad Brown Or Black Rings.
- Can Attain A Length of 12 Inches, With the Tail Being Two-Thirds of the Total Length.
Details On Diet Are Not Provided In the Text.
- Males Have A Gular Pouch, Suggesting Potential Display Behavior.
About Variegated mountain lizard
The variegated mountain lizard, scientifically known as Japalura variegata and sometimes referred to as the Himalayan dragon, is a species of agamid lizard native to the mountainous terrains of northern India, Bhutan, and Nepal. This reptile is distinguished by its unique physical characteristics, including a series of keeled scales covering its body, a prominent nuchal crest that extends along its back as a serrated ridge, and a small gular pouch present in males. Its coloration is notably variable, often featuring oblique cross bands of brown or black alternating with lighter shades on its back, and ringed tails, contributing to its 'variegated' common name.
Historically documented, the variegated mountain lizard can reach a total length of up to 12 inches, with its tail making up a significant portion of its body. The detailed descriptions from naturalists like C. A. L. Gunther highlight its scaled head, throat, and limbs, as well as the specific arrangement of scales and the presence of canine teeth within its jaws. While much is documented about its physical form and distribution, specific details regarding its diet, lifespan, and reproductive strategies are not extensively covered in available records.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name of the variegated mountain lizard?
The scientific name for the variegated mountain lizard is Japalura variegata. This binomial nomenclature is used to classify it within the scientific community.
Where is the variegated mountain lizard found?
The variegated mountain lizard is native to the northern regions of India, as well as the countries of Bhutan and Nepal. It inhabits mountainous terrains within these areas.
What are the distinctive physical features of this lizard?
Key features include small, irregular, keeled shields on the head, a sharp canthus rostralis, and a nuchal crest composed of triangular lobes that continues as a slight serrated ridge along the back. Males also have a small gular pouch.
What is the typical coloration of a variegated mountain lizard?
The back typically displays alternate brown or black and grayish or yellowish-white cross bands that ascend obliquely backwards. The head is variegated with black, and the tail features broad brown or black rings. Coloration can vary significantly, with some individuals being almost entirely black above, variegated with yellow.
What is the maximum size of the variegated mountain lizard?
The variegated mountain lizard can attain a total length of up to 12 inches. Of this length, the tail comprises approximately two-thirds.
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