Shining tree iguana facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Shining tree iguana |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Liolaemus
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| Species: |
nitidus
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The Liolaemus nitidus, also known as the shining tree iguana, is a type of lizard. It belongs to the Iguanidae family, which includes many well-known iguanas. This special lizard lives only in Chile. You can find it mostly in a unique area called the Chilean matorral.
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What is the Shining Tree Iguana?
This iguana is a medium-sized lizard. It can grow to about 9 centimeters (about 3.5 inches) from its snout (nose) to its vent (the opening near its tail). When you include its long tail, it can be up to 27 centimeters (about 10.6 inches) long!
Where Does it Live?
The shining tree iguana is endemic to Chile. This means it is found naturally nowhere else in the world. Its main home is the Chilean matorral. This area is a type of shrubland with tough, dry plants. It's similar to a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
What Does it Eat?
When shining tree iguanas are young, they mostly eat insects. This helps them grow big and strong. As they get older, their diet changes. Adult iguanas become omnivorous. This means they eat both plants and other small animals. They might still eat insects, but they also munch on leaves, flowers, or fruits.
How Does it Reproduce?
The shining tree iguana is an oviparous species. This means that the female lays eggs. These eggs hatch into baby iguanas. This is how they create new generations and keep their species going.
See also
In Spanish: Lagarto nítido para niños
