CALOTES (GARDEN LIZARD)

Contents hide

1) Introduction

2) Classification of Calotes (Garden Lizard)

3) Geographical distribution

4) Habit and habitat

5) General Characteristics of Calotes (Garden Lizard)

6) Ecological Importance

7) Conservation Status

8) Special features

9) Identification

Introduction

Calotes is a genus of lizards commonly referred to as garden lizards or agamids, found primarily in South and Southeast Asia. These lizards are known for their striking coloration, ability to adapt to various environments, and often for their unique behavior of head-bobbing and displaying their throat fans. They thrive in diverse habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. With their prominent role in ecosystems and distinctive appearance, Species have captivated herpetologists and nature enthusiasts alike

Classification of Calotes (Garden 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 :- Agamidae (Limbs normal. Teeth homodont.)
Genus :- Calotes

Geographical distribution

Calotes is found in India, Malayasia and China.

Habit and habitat

Calotes is adapted for arboreal life and slight disturbance or any noise causes the lizard to run away swiftly. It feeds on small insects.

General Characteristics of Calotes (Garden Lizard)

Commonly known as blood sucker because of the red colour of neck.
Body is elongated, slender, 30 cm in length, covered with tough scales, and divided into head, short neck, trunk and tail.
Animal contains a crest of spines in mid-dorsal line.
Spines also present on under surface of head and neck.
Head contains, mouth, eyes, nostrils and small opening for external ear.
Tongue short.
Teeth usually differentiated (heterodont) and attached to the edges of jaws (acrodont).
Forelimbs and hind limb normal Tail elongated and does not break.

Ecological Importance

Pest Control:
- Calotes species are primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide variety of insects and other arthropods. This helps regulate pest populations, benefiting agricultural and urban areas.
Prey for Other Animals:
- As part of the food web, These lizards serve as prey for birds, snakes, and small mammals, supporting the biodiversity of their ecosystems.
Seed Dispersal:
- Some species consume fruits and help in seed dispersal, contributing to plant reproduction and forest regeneration.
Indicator of Ecosystem Health:
- The presence of in a habitat often indicates a balanced and healthy environment, as they rely on intact ecosystems for food and shelter.

Conservation Status

IUCN Red List Status:
Most Calotes species are listed as Least Concern, but habitat loss and human activities have placed certain populations under stress.
Threats to Calotes:
- Habitat Destruction: Deforestation and urbanization are the primary threats to Calotes populations.
- Climate Change: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns may disrupt their habitats.
- Pet Trade: Some species are captured for the exotic pet trade, though this is less common compared to other reptiles.
Conservation Efforts:
- Protected Areas: Many Calotes species are found in national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, providing some protection against habitat loss.
- Habitat Restoration: Efforts to restore degraded habitats benefit Calotes and other wildlife.
- Awareness Programs: Educating communities about the ecological importance of lizards can reduce unnecessary killing or capture.

Special features

Calotes is also famous for colour changes. The original colour is olive green but during courtship, colour changes to yellow and head becomes red. The colour changes are largely governed by temperature and environment and also by hormones from pituitary. The colour pigments are present in skin.
During breeding season, male acquires brilliant colours and a gular pouch also develops in neck. The male changes colour during courtship and fights for female. Viviparous.
- Color Change:
  Many Calotes species can change their color to blend into their surroundings or to signal aggression or courtship. For example, the Calotes versicolor (oriental garden lizard) can turn its head and upper body bright red during the breeding season.
Head-Bobbing and Display Behavior:
- Males are known for their head-bobbing and throat puffing displays, used for communication, territorial defense, and courtship.
Adaptability:
- These lizards can thrive in a variety of habitats, from dense forests to urban gardens, making them one of the most adaptable reptile genera.
Arboreal and Terrestrial Lifestyle:
- While some Calotes species are primarily arboreal, others are equally comfortable on the ground, allowing them to exploit a range of ecological niches.
Strong Limbs and Tail:
- Their well-developed limbs and prehensile tails aid in climbing and maintaining balance on trees and shrubs.