FIJIAN IGUANA
Brachylophus vitiensis
DESCRIPTION
The Fijian iguana (Brachylophus vitiensis) is a large, arboreal lizard native to the islands of Fiji. It is known for its vibrant green coloration and distinctive flattened body, which helps it navigate through the trees.
FUN FACTS
- Fijian iguanas are one of the few iguana species that are primarily arboreal | They can change their color slightly based on temperature and mood | They are culturally significant to the Fijian people
QUICK INFO
Lifespanup to 20 years in the wild
Average Weight1-1.5 kg
Average Length0.6-1 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuresolitary
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (October-December)
- Habitat
- These iguanas inhabit tropical forests and coastal scrublands, often found in trees where they can bask in the sun and forage for food. They prefer areas with abundant vegetation.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Coastal
- Native Range
- Endemic to the islands of Fiji, particularly on the islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu.
- Continent
- Oceania
- Countries
- Fiji
- Diet
- Fijian iguanas are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of leaves, flowers, and fruits. They may occasionally consume insects.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- leaves, flowers, fruits
- Social Structure
- solitary
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
LC
VU
1-1.5 kg
Weight
0.6-1 m
Length
- Coloration
- vibrant green with some individuals displaying blue or yellow markings
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally larger and more colorful than females
- Lifespan
- up to 20 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-3
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (October-December)
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently declining due to habitat loss and introduced predators.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to agriculture and urban development, as well as predation by introduced species such as rats and cats.
- Conservation Program
- Conservation efforts include habitat protection and breeding programs in captivity.
- Predators
- rats, cats, and birds of prey
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can drop from trees to escape predators and may also use their coloration for camouflage.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon