Small-scaled lacerta facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Small-scaled lacerta |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Ophisops
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| Species: |
microlepis
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| Synonyms | |
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Gymnops microlepis (Blanford, 1870) |
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The Ophisops microlepis, also known as the small-scaled lacerta, is a type of lizard. You can find this interesting reptile in certain parts of India. It was first described by William Thomas Blanford in 1870.
About the Small-Scaled Lacerta
This lizard has a unique appearance. It has a rather flat head and a long snout. Its body is covered in small scales, which gives it its name. The scales on its back are similar in size to those on its sides. Around the middle of its body, it has about 52 to 64 scales.
Body Features
The small-scaled lacerta has smooth scales on its upper head. It has special scales around its nostrils and eyes. There are four scales above each eye, with tiny granules separating them from other scales. A large shield-like scale covers its ear opening.
The lizard usually has a clear "collar" mark around its neck. Its belly scales are arranged in six long rows. It also has a large plate-like scale in front of its vent (a body opening).
Legs and Tail
The hind legs of the small-scaled lacerta are quite long. They can reach up to its ear or even between its ear and eye. Each hind leg has 13 to 10 femoral pores, which are small openings often used for scent marking. Its tail is very long, usually about twice the length of its head and body combined. The scales on its tail are quite large.
Size and Color
From its snout to its vent, this lizard measures about 2.5 inches (6.35 cm). Its tail adds another 5.5 inches (14 cm) to its total length.
The small-scaled lacerta is typically brown or grey on its upper side. It often has small black spots that might form a net-like pattern on its sides. You might also see one or two pale stripes running along each side of its body. Its underside is white.
Where It Lives
The small-scaled lacerta is found in several regions of India. These include Bengal, Kachchh, and Bilaspur. It prefers habitats where it can move around easily and find food.
