Western Netted Dragon
The Western Netted Dragon (Ctenophorus reticulatus) is a species of agamid lizard found across parts of South Australia, Western Australia, and the southern Northern Territory. Adult males are distinguished by their red coloration with black reticulations, while females and juveniles exhibit paler or olive-grey hues with dark blotches. This species is characterized by a blunt snout, short limbs, and a round head.
Key Facts
- ›Found in South Australia, Western Australia, and southern Northern Territory.
- ›Adult males are red with black reticulated patterns.
- ›Females are paler with elongated dark blotches.
- ›Juveniles are olive-grey.
- ›Possesses a blunt snout, short limbs, and a round head.
- ›Closely related to the central netted dragon, Ctenophorus nuchalis.
Western Netted Ground-Dragon
South Australia, Western Australia, Southern Northern Territory
- Snout-To-Vent Length of 108 mm.
- Blunt Snout.
- Short Limbs.
- Round Head.
- Adult Males Are Red With Black Reticula .
- Females Are Paler With Elongated Dark Blotches.
- Juveniles Are Olive-Grey.
About Western Netted Dragon
The Western Netted Dragon, scientifically known as Ctenophorus reticulatus, is a reptile species belonging to the family Agamidae. It is endemic to Australia, with its natural range encompassing parts of South Australia, Western Australia, and the southern regions of the Northern Territory.
Physical Characteristics
This lizard is characterized by a blunt snout, short limbs, and a distinctly round head. Adult males typically display vibrant red coloration adorned with black reticulations, giving the species its name. In contrast, adult females are generally paler and feature elongated dark blotches. Juveniles of the species have an olive-grey appearance. The snout-to-vent length of Ctenophorus reticulatus can reach up to 108 mm.
Taxonomy and Relationships
The Western Netted Dragon is considered most closely related to the central netted dragon, Ctenophorus nuchalis. Both species share similarities within the Agamidae family, which is known for its diverse array of dragon lizards.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name of the Western Netted Dragon?
The scientific name of the Western Netted Dragon is Ctenophorus reticulatus. This binomial name is used to classify the species within the scientific community.
Where can the Western Netted Dragon be found?
The Western Netted Dragon is native to South Australia, Western Australia, and the southern part of the Northern Territory in Australia. Its range covers arid and semi-arid regions within these states and territories.
How can I distinguish between male and female Western Netted Dragons?
Adult male Western Netted Dragons are typically red with distinctive black reticulations. In contrast, females are paler and feature elongated dark blotches. Juveniles are generally olive-grey in color.
What are the physical characteristics of the Western Netted Dragon?
This lizard has a snout-to-vent length of up to 108 mm. It is characterized by a blunt snout, short limbs, and a round head. The coloration varies significantly with age and sex.
What is the Western Netted Dragon most closely related to?
The Western Netted Dragon is most closely related to the central netted dragon, which is scientifically known as Ctenophorus nuchalis. Both species belong to the Agamidae family.
Related Lizards
Algerian psammodromus
The Algerian psammodromus is a species of lizard recognized for its metallic brownish dorsal coloration often accented by conspicuous white or yellowish stripes. It inhabits dense bushy vegetation in southwestern Europe and northwestern Africa, preying primarily on terrestrial arthropods. This species faces threats primarily from habitat loss.
Amphisbaenidae
Amphisbaenidae, commonly known as worm lizards, are a family of limbless reptiles characterized by their worm-like appearance due to rings of scales. These burrowing creatures possess powerful jaws and specialized sensory adaptations for detecting prey underground. They are found across South America, parts of the Caribbean, Europe, and sub-Saharan Africa.
Anolis sabanus
The Saba anole (Anolis sabanus) is a medium-sized lizard endemic to the Caribbean island of Saba. Both males and females have pale bodies, but males display dark dorsal blotches, while females have a lighter hue with a dorsal stripe or mottling. This species is considered near-threatened due to the potential risk of invasive anoles being introduced to its habitat.