Hydrosaurus amboinensis

(Schlosser, 1768)

Vernacular names
English : Amboina sailfin lizard
French : Hydrosaure d’Amboine

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Agamidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
The largest member of its family, reaching up to 1 m in total length. Males have uniform crest from nape to back, no visible conical scale structures on neck and flanks. Coloration green to yellow with network of black spots and lines.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in South-East Asia, from Central-eastern Indonesia (Ambon) to New Guinea. Lives in forests and woodlands, almost always near water.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species seems to remain fairly common in its range despite habitat loss and collection for local and international trade.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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