Anolis muralla facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Anolis muralla |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Anolis
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| Species: |
muralla
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The Anolis muralla is a special kind of lizard. It belongs to a group of lizards called Dactyloidae, which are often known as anoles. This unique lizard can only be found in the country of Honduras in Central America.
Contents
Discovering the Muralla Anole
The Anolis muralla was first officially described in 1999. It was discovered by three scientists: Gunther Köhler, James Randall McCranie, and Larry David Wilson. They gave it the name muralla, which means "wall" in Spanish. This might be because of where it lives or its appearance.
What is an Anole?
Anoles are a large group of lizards. There are hundreds of different kinds! Many anoles are known for their ability to change color slightly. They also have a special flap of skin under their throat called a dewlap. Males often show off their dewlap to attract mates or scare away other males.
Where Do Anoles Live?
Most anoles live in warm, tropical places. You can find them in forests, gardens, and even cities. They are common in the Caribbean islands and parts of North, Central, and South America. The Anolis muralla specifically lives in Honduras.
Life in Honduras
Honduras is a country with many different types of environments. It has mountains, forests, and coastal areas. The Anolis muralla likely lives in specific parts of these natural habitats. Lizards often blend in with their surroundings to hide from predators.
What Do Anoles Eat?
Most anoles are insect-eaters. They love to munch on small bugs like crickets, spiders, and flies. They are important for keeping insect populations in check.
Why is it Critically Endangered?
The Anolis muralla is listed as Critically Endangered (CR). This means it is facing a very high risk of disappearing forever in the wild.
Understanding "Critically Endangered"
When an animal is "Critically Endangered," it means there are very few of them left. Their numbers are dropping fast. This can happen for many reasons.
- Habitat Loss: Their homes, like forests, might be cut down for farming or building.
- Climate Change: Changes in weather patterns can make it hard for them to survive.
- Pollution: Harmful chemicals can make their environment unsafe.
- Diseases: New illnesses can spread quickly among small populations.
Scientists and conservation groups work hard to protect these animals. They try to save their habitats and help their populations grow. Protecting the Anolis muralla helps keep the natural world healthy.
See also
In Spanish: Anolis muralla para niños
