Introduction The genus Heloderma includes venomous lizards like the Gila monster (H. suspectum) and the Mexican beaded lizard (H. horridum). These lizards are native to arid and semi-arid regions of North and Central America. Known for their slow movements and bead-like skin texture, Heloderma species are unique among lizards due to their venomous nature, which […]
Introduction The genus Varanus encompasses a wide range of monitor lizards, known for their intelligence, agility, and adaptability. These reptiles are found across Africa, Asia, and Australia, inhabiting diverse ecosystems such as forests, deserts, and wetlands. Species like the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) and the water monitor (Varanus salvator) are iconic representatives of this group.
Introduction Chameleon are a group of reptiles belonging to the family Chamaeleonidae. Known for their extraordinary ability to change color, chameleons are native to Africa, Madagascar, southern Europe, and parts of Asia. They are arboreal lizards with unique adaptations like independently moving eyes and a projectile tongue. These fascinating creatures are symbols of biodiversity and
Skinks (Mabuia) are a diverse group of lizards belonging to the family Scincidae, encompassing over 1,500 species distributed worldwide.
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
Moloch horridus, commonly known as the thorny devil, is a small, spiny lizard native to the arid and semi-arid deserts of Australia.
Draco lizards are typically found in tropical rainforests, where their gliding ability helps them escape predators, forage for food, and find mates
Crotaphytus is a genus of lizards commonly known as collared lizards, named for the distinct black bands or “collars” around their necks.
Iguana play a vital role in maintaining the balance and health of the ecosystems they inhabit. Their ecological importance lies in their interactions with plants, animals, and the environment, which contribute to biodiversity and ecological stability. Classification of Iguana Geographical distribution Iguana is found in tropical countries. It is distributed in Mexico, West Indies, Southern
Phrynosoma, commonly known as horned lizards, are a genus of reptiles native to arid and semi-arid regions of North and Central America. These distinctive, spiny-bodied lizards play a critical role in the ecosystems they inhabit, contributing to biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. Classification of Phrynosoma (Horned Toad) Geographical distribution Phrynosoma is a New World lizard
Gecko, small lizards belonging to the infraorder Gekkota, are widely distributed across tropical, subtropical, and even temperate regions. They play significant ecological roles in the ecosystems they inhabit. Classification of Gecko (Wall Lizard) Geographical distribution Gecko has cosmopolitan distribution but is specially found in Asian and European countries. Habit and habitat Gecko is a common
Hemidactylus is a diverse genus of geckos widely distributed across tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Commonly known as house geckos, these small, agile reptiles are frequently seen in human dwellings, where they feed on insects attracted to artificial lights. Members of this genus are characterized by their flexible toes with adhesive pads, allowing
Sphenodon reptile endemic to New Zealand and the sole surviving member of the order Rhynchocephalia, which thrived during the Mesozoic Era. Despite its ancient lineage and limited geographic range, the tuatara holds significant ecological importance in the ecosystems it inhabits. Classification of Sphenodon Geographical distribution It is found in New Zealand and specially in the
Trionyx is a genus of softshell turtles belonging to the family Trionychidae. In the past, many species of this family were placed in this genus, but now T. The African soft-shelled turtle, or Nile soft-shelled turtle, is the only extant soft-shelled turtle still classified as a soft-shelled turtle. Other species in this genus are known
Chelone (tortoise head) is a genus of four to six species of hardy perennial herbaceous plants native to North America known for their flowers that resemble turtle heads. It grows in moist, acidic soils and partial shade, and is popular in woodland gardens for its late summer flowers (white, pink, red) and disease resistance. Classification
The Indian Terrapin (Kachuga tactum) is a small, primarily carnivorous freshwater turtle native to South Asia (India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh). Known for its raised roof-like shell and striking yellow and red markings on its neck, this species prefers slow-moving rivers and ponds. Threatened by exploitation of the pet trade and habitat loss. Classification of Kachuga
Chrysemys is a genus of turtles in the family Emydiidae. They are found in most areas of North America. This genus includes loggerhead turtles and southern loggerhead turtles. In Chrysemis, sex determination is temperature dependent. Incubating the eggs at low temperatures will produce males, and incubating them at high temperatures will produce females. Classification of
Testudo (Latin for “turtle”) most commonly refers to an ancient Roman armored military formation, a genus of Mediterranean turtle, or the mascot of the University of Maryland. As a military tactic, soldiers used stacked shields to protect themselves during a siege. Classification of Testudo (Giant Turtle) Geographical distribution Testudo is widely distributed in Galapagos Islands,
