Takydromus dorsalis explained

Takydromus dorsalis, the Sakishima grass lizard, is a species of lizard in the family Lacertidae. It is endemic to the Yaeyama Islands (Ishigaki Island, Iriomote Island, Kohama Island and Kuroshima) in southern Japan.

Etymology

The name "Takydromus" means "fast-running", derived from greek. "Dorsalis" was inspired by its small, differently arranged dorsal scales that distinguish it from other species.[1]

Activity

It is diurnal. The females lay clutches of one to two eggs.

Threats

The IUCN lists the species as endangered. Threats consist of habitat degradation and invasive peacocks.

Notes and References

  1. Stejneger,L. 1904. A new species of lizard from the Riu Kiu Archipelago, Japan. Smithson. Quarterly (Misc. Coll. XLVII, Nov. 9, 1904): 294 https://ia600907.us.archive.org/22/items/smithsonianmisce471905smit/smithsonianmisce471905smit.pdf