Varanus kordensis

(Meyer, 1874)

Vernacular names
English : Biak tree monitor
French : Varan vert de Biak

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

Identification
The species grows to about 90 cm in length with a very long prehensile tail (almost double of body length). Its coloration is variable from yellow-green to dark green. Reticulated black pattern made of small ocelli on whole body.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in Australasia and is endemic to the island of Biak, off Papua-New Guinea. Lives in lowland forests such as littoral or alluvial forests.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : DATA DEFICIENT
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species is known from only a single island and is vulnerable to collecting for the trade and destruction of forests. Its true conservation status has yet to be assessed.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

Back to “Monitors, Tegus and relatives” page