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Braided tree iguana facts for kids

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Braided tree iguana
Liolaemus platei.jpg
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Genus:
Liolaemus
Species:
platei

The Liolaemus platei, also called the braided tree iguana, is a type of lizard. It belongs to the Liolaemidae family. This lizard lives only in Chile.

Where the Braided Tree Iguana Lives

The braided tree iguana, or L. platei, is special because it lives only in Chile. It can be found in a natural area called the Chilean Matorral. This area stretches from the Antofagasta Region in the north, through the Atacama Region, and down to the Coquimbo Region in the south.

Naming and Classification

Scientists use a system called taxonomy to name and group living things. The L. platei was first described as a new species in 1898. This was done by an Austrian scientist named Franz Werner. He studied reptiles and amphibians, which is called herpetology. Another lizard, Liolaemus curicensis, was once thought to be a type of L. platei.

Why It's Called Platei

The second part of the lizard's scientific name, platei, is a way to honor someone. It was named after a German zoologist (animal scientist) named Ludwig Hermann Plate.

How We Protect This Lizard

The L. platei is classified by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) as "Least Concern." This means that for now, there are enough of these lizards in the wild. They are not currently at high risk of disappearing.

How They Have Babies

The L. platei is an oviparous animal. This means that the female lizard lays eggs. The baby lizards then hatch from these eggs.

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