Theresia's Pacific iguana facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Theresia's Pacific iguana |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Microlophus
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| Species: |
theresiae
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| Synonyms | |
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The Microlophus theresiae, also known as Theresia's Pacific iguana, is a type of lizard. It belongs to a group of lizards called the Tropiduridae family. This lizard is special because it is found only in one part of the world.
What's in a Name?
The second part of its scientific name, theresiae, was chosen to honor Princess Theresa of Bavaria. She was a princess who helped collect the first examples of this lizard. Scientists often name new species after the people who discover them or help with their research.
Where Does it Live?
This lizard is endemic to Peru. This means you can only find Microlophus theresiae living naturally in Peru, a country in South America. It doesn't live anywhere else in the world.
Its Home and Habitat
Microlophus theresiae likes to live in certain kinds of places. Its favorite natural habitats are deserts and shrublands. These are dry areas with some bushes and small plants. You can find these lizards from sea level up to about 200 meters (or 656 feet) high.
What Does it Eat?
This lizard is a predator, which means it hunts and eats other creatures. Microlophus theresiae mainly eats aquatic Hemiptera. These are small insects that live in or near water.
Life Cycle
Microlophus theresiae is an oviparous animal. This means that the female lizard lays eggs. The baby lizards then hatch from these eggs.
