GREEN KEEL-BELLIED LIZARD
Gonatodes albogularis
DESCRIPTION
The Green Keel-Bellied Lizard, or Gonatodes albogularis, is a small, slender lizard characterized by its vibrant green coloration and distinctive keel-like scales along its belly. This species exhibits a unique behavior of basking in the sun on rocks and tree branches, often seen darting quickly to evade predators. Ecologically, it plays a role in controlling insect populations in its habitat, contributing to the balance of the ecosystem.
FUN FACTS
- The Green Keel-Bellied Lizard is known for its remarkable agility, allowing it to navigate through trees and shrubs with ease
- This ability not only helps it evade predators but also aids in hunting for insects
- | Interestingly, these lizards can change their coloration slightly based on their environment, which helps them blend in and avoid detection by both predators and prey
- This adaptive trait is crucial for their survival in the wild
QUICK INFO
Lifespan3-5 years in the wild
Average Length10-15 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary, occasionally seen in pairs during breeding
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- This lizard is typically found in tropical and subtropical environments, often inhabiting areas with dense vegetation. It prefers locations that provide ample cover and basking spots.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Subtropical Forest
- Native Range
- The Green Keel-Bellied Lizard is native to parts of Central and South America, particularly in regions like the Amazon Basin.
- Continent
- South America
- Countries
- Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru
- Diet
- The Green Keel-Bellied Lizard primarily feeds on small insects and other invertebrates. It uses its quick reflexes to catch prey on the move.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- small insects
- Social Structure
- solitary, occasionally seen in pairs during breeding
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
10-15 cm
Length
- Coloration
- vibrant green with a lighter underside
- Lifespan
- 3-5 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-5
- Sexual Maturity
- 6-12 months
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to deforestation and urbanization. These activities reduce their natural habitat and food sources.
- Predators
- Birds of prey, snakes, and larger lizards are known to prey on the Green Keel-Bellied Lizard.
- Defense Mechanisms
- This lizard can quickly escape into dense vegetation to avoid predators, utilizing its agility and speed.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon