Brilliant arboreal alligator lizard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Brilliant arboreal alligator lizard |
|
|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Abronia (lizard)
|
| Species: |
gaiophantasma
|
The brilliant arboreal alligator lizard (Abronia gaiophantasma) is a special type of lizard found only in Guatemala. When an animal is found only in one specific place, it is called endemic. This lizard was first described by scientists Jonathan A. Campbell and Darrel Frost in 1993.
Contents
About the Brilliant Arboreal Alligator Lizard
This lizard is known for its bright colors and for living in trees. It is a type of alligator lizard, which means it has scales that look a bit like an alligator's skin. These lizards are usually quite shy. They spend most of their lives hidden among the branches and leaves of trees.
Where Does It Live?
The brilliant arboreal alligator lizard lives in the mountains of east-central Guatemala. You can find it from the Sierra de las Minas all the way to the Chilascó region. These lizards prefer to live at high places, from about 1,600 to 2,650 meters above sea level.
They make their homes in special kinds of forests. These include pine–oak forests and cloud forests. Cloud forests are very cool and misty, often covered in clouds. This type of environment is perfect for these lizards.
Why Is It Endangered?
Sadly, the brilliant arboreal alligator lizard is an endangered species. This means there are not many of them left in the wild. The area where they live is quite small, only about 750 square kilometers.
There are several reasons why these lizards are in danger:
- Habitat Loss: Their forest homes are being cut down. This happens because people need land for farming and agriculture.
- Pine Plantations: Some forests are being turned into pine plantations. These are areas where only pine trees are grown, which changes the natural habitat.
- Fires: Fires, sometimes started on purpose, also destroy their homes.
- Plant Export: Another threat comes from exporting ornamental Chamaedaphne calyculata plants. This activity can disturb their habitat.
How Are They Protected?
Even though they face many threats, there are efforts to protect these lizards. They can be found in special protected areas. These areas help keep their homes safe. Two important protected areas are:
- Mario Dary Rivera Protected Biotope
- Sierra de las Minas Biosphere Reserve
These places help ensure that the brilliant arboreal alligator lizard has a safe place to live and thrive.
See also
In Spanish: Abronia gaiophantasma para niños
