Agasthyagama Edge, also known as Northern Kangaroo Lizard, a new species, has been discovered in the biodiverse forests of the Western Ghats.
About Agasthyagama Edge (Northern Kangaroo Lizard):
- Agasthyagama Edge is a distinct species separate from the previously known A. beddomii or Indian kangaroo lizard.
- It belongs to the Agamidae family.
Physical Characteristics:
- Maximum snout-vent length of 4.3 cm.
- Uniform dull olive-brown body with a slightly darker head.
- Distinguishing features include a white throat with a broad dark brown stripe and brick-yellow scales on the outside.
- Females have a brown body with a reddish-brown head and peach-tinged torso, while males feature a light tannish-brown body with a peach-coloured stripe down the back.
- The throat of the male is marked by a bright red patch surrounded by white-blue scales.
Habitat and Behavior:
- Predominantly found in the southern Western Ghats at Kulamavu in Idukki.
- Terrestrial lizard that inhabits areas with dense leaf litter.
- Feeds on small insects and employs rapid movement to evade predators.
- Notable for their reduced fifth toe, which limits their climbing ability compared to other lizards.
Ref: Source
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Agasthyagama Edge?
Agasthyagama Edge is a newly discovered species of lizard found in the biodiverse forests of the Western Ghats, distinct from the previously known A. beddomii or Indian kangaroo lizard.
What are the distinguishing physical characteristics of Agasthyagama Edge?
Agasthyagama Edge has a maximum snout-vent length of 4.3 cm, a uniform dull olive-brown body, and distinguishing features such as a white throat with a broad dark brown stripe, brick-yellow scales on the outside, and sexual dimorphism in coloration.
Where is Agasthyagama Edge predominantly found?
Agasthyagama Edge is predominantly found in the southern Western Ghats at Kulamavu in Idukki.
What is unique about the behavior and habitat of Agasthyagama Edge?
Agasthyagama Edge is a terrestrial lizard that inhabits areas with dense leaf litter, feeds on small insects, employs rapid movement to evade predators, and has a reduced fifth toe limiting its climbing ability compared to other lizards.