San Cristóbal lava lizard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids San Cristóbal lava lizard |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Male | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Microlophus
|
| Species: |
bivittatus
|
 |
|
| Synonyms | |
|
|
The San Cristóbal lava lizard (scientific name: Microlophus bivittatus) is a special type of lava lizard. It lives only on San Cristóbal Island in the amazing Galápagos Islands. This means it is endemic to that one island. Scientists usually place it in the genus Microlophus. However, sometimes it has been called Tropidurus. These lizards are currently in danger. Wild cats on the island are a big threat to them. The San Cristóbal lava lizard is also related to the Microlophus occipitalis.
Reproduction
Lava lizards have interesting ways to find a mate. Male lizards often compete with each other. They do this by "head bobbing." This means they nod their heads up and down. This head bobbing helps them avoid real fights.
Scientists have studied this behavior. They found that head bobs work best when they are answered right away. If there is a delay, the message might not be as clear. Bigger male lizards often get more aggressive responses from other males. They also get stronger responses from female lizards. There is no clear evidence that lizards of the same sex compete more for food or space.
Threats
The San Cristóbal lava lizard faces a big danger. This danger comes from invasive cats on the island. These cats are not native to the Galápagos. They hunt and eat the lizards. This makes it harder for the lizards to survive and have babies. Protecting these lizards from invasive cats is very important.
