CROTAPHYTUS (COLLARED LIZARD)

Contents hide

1) Introduction

2) Classification of Crotaphytus (Collared Lizard)

3) Geographical distribution

4) Habit and habitat

5) General Characteristics

6) Ecological Importance

7) Conservation Status

8) Special features

9) Identification

Introduction

Crotaphytus is a genus of lizards commonly known as collared lizards, named for the distinct black bands or “collars” around their necks. These lizards are native to arid and semi-arid regions of North America, including the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Collared lizards are medium-sized and known for their vibrant colors, with males often displaying bright hues of blue, green, or yellow during the breeding season. These diurnal reptiles are highly active and capable of running on their hind legs, making them agile predators in their desert habitats.

Classification of Crotaphytus (Collared Lizard)

Phylum :- Chordata (Dorsal tubular nerve cord, notochord and gill-slits present.)
Group :- Craniata (Definite head, Cranium with brain present.)
Sub phylum :- Vertebrata (Vertebral column present.)
Division :- Gnathostomata (Jaws and paired appendages present.)
Super Class :- Tetrapoda (Paired limbs, lungs, cornified skin and bony skeleton.)
Class :- Reptilia (Scaly vertebrates. Right and left aortic arches present. Single condyle. Pulmonary respiration. Embryo with amnion and allantois.)
Sub Class :- Diapsida (Skull with two temporal openings separated by post-orbital and squamosal.)
Order :- Squamata (Lizards and snakes with horny epidermal scales or shields. Quadrate bone movable. Vertebrae procoelous. Anal opening transverse.. Vertebrae amphicentrous.)
Sub-order :- Iguania (Lizards. Body slender, limbs 4. Pterygoid in contact with quadrate. Eyelids movable.)
Family :- Crotaphytidae(Limbs normal. Teeth homodont.)
Genus :- Crotaphytus

Geographical distribution

Crotaphytus is widely distributed in West Indies, Mexico, Southern and Central America.

Habit and habitat

Crotaphytus is a land lizard adapted for fast running and can jump like frog. It is nocturnal, carnivorous, oviparous and capable of changing colours

General Characteristics

Commonly called as collared or inflated lizard.
Body divided into head, neck, trunk and tail.
Head small containing mouth, eyes, nares and tympanum. Eyes have movable eyelids. Tongue is small. Teeth pleurodont.
Neck is small and in male possesses a double black collar and female has a slaty grey narrow collar.
Forelimbs and hind limbs are stout, clawed and elongated.
Vertebrae procoelous
Tail is elongated and narrowly pointed.

Ecological Importance

Predator Role: Collared lizards play a key role in controlling populations of insects, spiders, and smaller reptiles. Their predation helps maintain the ecological balance in arid ecosystems.
Prey for Larger Animals: As part of the food web, Crotaphytus species serve as prey for larger predators, such as birds of prey, snakes, and mammals, contributing to the energy flow in their ecosystems.
Seed Dispersal: While primarily carnivorous, some species may consume fruits occasionally, aiding in seed dispersal and plant propagation in their habitats.
Indicator Species: The presence of collared lizards in an area is often an indicator of ecosystem health, as they require specific habitat conditions, such as rocky terrain and sparse vegetation, to thrive.

Conservation Status

IUCN Red List Status: The conservation status of Crotaphytus species varies. Most species, such as the eastern collared lizard (Crotaphytus collaris), are listed as Least Concern due to their relatively stable populations. However, habitat destruction and fragmentation pose localized threats.
Threats to Crotaphytus:
- Habitat Loss: Urbanization, agriculture, and mining activities can destroy or fragment the rocky habitats that collared lizards depend on.
- Climate Change: Alterations in temperature and precipitation patterns may impact the availability of suitable habitats.
- Overcollection: Some species are collected for the pet trade, which can lead to population declines in certain areas.
- Predation by Invasive Species: Predatory animals introduced to their habitats, such as feral cats, can threaten collared lizard populations.
Conservation Efforts:
- Habitat Protection: Preserving natural rocky habitats is essential for the survival of Crotaphytus species. Protected areas and national parks often provide safe environments for these lizards.
- Regulation of Trade: Laws regulating the collection and trade of wild reptiles help protect certain Crotaphytus species from overexploitation.
- Research and Monitoring: Continued studies on population dynamics, habitat needs, and threats are important for informing conservation strategies.

Special features

The lizard shows brilliant pigmentation specially during breeding season. The abdomen is inflated. The male is bright green coloured and the body surface is adorned with yellow spots. Females are grey coloured. The tail breaks in danger i.e., it shows autotomy.
Distinct Collars: The black bands around their necks are a defining characteristic, giving the genus its name. These collars are more pronounced in some species than others.
Colorful Appearance: Males are known for their bright and striking colors, which become more vivid during the breeding season to attract mates and display dominance.
Bipedal Running: Collared lizards are capable of running on their hind legs for short distances, a behavior that helps them escape predators quickly.
Territorial Behavior: Male Crotaphytus lizards are highly territorial and often engage in aggressive displays to defend their territories and attract mates.
Adaptation to Arid Environments: These lizards are well-adapted to dry, rocky habitats, with physiological and behavioral traits that allow them to conserve water and thrive in extreme temperatures.