Uromastyx
(Uromastyx aegypticus)
Order: Squmata
Family: Agamidae
Genus: Uromastyx
Species: aegypticus
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HABITAT AND RANGE:
Uromastyx have a wide range from
northwestern India, southwestern Asia,
the Arabian Peninsula and the Sahara of
northern Africa. |
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PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS:
The Uromastyx is also known as the dab
lizard or spiny-tailed lizard. They can
reach a length of 30 inches and weigh up
to 3 lbs. This lizard is flatter than
iguanas and chameleons and look as
though they have been squished.
Coloration can vary, but is normally
dark to light brown. Behavior between
individuals can vary, but normally they
can be very shy and will sometimes
retreat to a hiding place when
approached. The male often has large
femoral pores with a waxy protuberance
and hemipene bulges, but this is not
obvious on all species. Males will
sometimes have a broader head, but this
can be very subtle and therefore not a
good indicator of gender. |
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ADAPTATIONS:
Uromastyx can inflate their bodies when
excited or warm. This is most likely a
defense mechanism to help prevent
predators from prying them out of holes
or small crevasses. Their spiny-fat
tails can be used as a defense and also
for fat storage. Most of their water is
obtained from the food they eat and also
from reabsorbing most of the water in
their urine. They are also good
climbers. |
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DIET:
The Uromastyx is an omnivore and will
eat a diet ranging from insects and meal
worms to vegetable and some flowers. |
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REPRODUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT:
The Uromastyx takes several years to
reach sexual maturity. Females can lay
up to 20 eggs when fully mature. Babies
are about 2-3 inches when they hatch. |
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STATUS IN WILD:
This animal is stable in the wild. |
