Science name: Acanthosaura murphyi – Nguyen, Do, Hoang, Nguyen, Mccormack, Nguyen, Orlov, Nguyen & Nguyen, 2018
Taxonomic: Animalia>> Chordata>> Reptilia>> Squamata >> Agamidae >> murphyi
Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: LC (Least Concern)
Description: Physical characteristics:
A large-sized lizard with a snout-vent length of 124.9 mm. It has a triangular head with a short snout, prominent nuchal crest made of 9 spines (largest measuring 14.9 mm), and a long tail measuring 189.9 mm with spiny scales along its length. The dorsal crest continues from the nuchal crest and gradually diminishes towards the cloaca.
Coloration:
The body is predominantly gray with the head, nuchal crest, and legs also gray. The underside is lighter, and the tail features lighter spots. Eyes are brown.
Distribution and habitat: Elevation: Found at elevations between 800 to 2,200 meters, sometimes at lower altitudes in regenerating forests during the rainy season.
Area: Endemic to Vietnam, specifically in Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa provinces.
Habitat: This species inhabits evergreen forests and prefers areas such as recovering forests, streamside forests, and coastal regions.
Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle: This species is diurnal and forages on the ground, feeding primarily on insects like ants, beetles, and spiders. It spends its daylight hours basking in the sun to regulate its body temperature.
Generation length: Unknown
Movement patterns: Non-migratory, resident species.
Congregatory behavior: Generally solitary or found in pairs, not known for notable congregatory behavior.
Conservation and status: Current conservation status: This species is highly threatened with extinction due to local hunting for both international and domestic pet trades.
Threats: Habitat degradation from human activities such as logging and the establishment of Acacia plantations pose significant threats.
Protected areas: This species has been recorded in Bidoup-Nui Ba National Park in Lam Dong and Hon Ba Nature Reserve in Khanh Hoa.
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