Vietnamese Green Crested Lizard – Bronchocela vietnamensis – Hallermann & Orlov, 2005

Science name: Bronchocela vietnamensis – Hallermann & Orlov, 2005

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Reptilia>> Squamata >> Agamidae >> vietnamensis

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: VU (Vunerable)

Description: Physical characteristics:
Adult females have a snout-vent length (SVL) of 94.9 mm, while the tail length reaches 335.1 mm. The species is characterized by a triangular head, green coloration on the dorsal surface of the head, body, and legs, and lighter green on the sides of the head. The tail is adorned with dark green crossbars. The body scales are keeled and the dorsal crest is made up of small spines that extend to the shoulders.
Unique features:
The species can be distinguished from similar species, such as Bronchocela smaragdina, by its smaller post-mental scales, white side markings in males, and gray banding on the tail. B. vietnamensis also differs in scale and nasal structure compared to other species in the Bronchocela genus.
Coloration:
The dorsal surface of the body is green with dark crossbars, and the underside is pale. A white stripe extends from the armpit to the groin, with additional white markings on the posterior thighs and tail.

Distribution and habitat: Elevation: Found between 230 and 1,050 meters, primarily inhabiting low-elevation evergreen forests.
Area: Endemic to Vietnam, with distribution in provinces such as Binh Thuan (Nui Ong Nature Reserve), Ninh Thuan (Phuoc Binh National Park), Gia Lai, and Dong Nai (Cat Tien National Park).
Habitat:
System: Terrestrial
Habitat type: Primarily found in submontane forests with tall trees.
Forest types:
Subtropical/Tropical Moist Lowland Forest (suitable for residents)

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle:
Bronchocela vietnamensis is diurnal and arboreal, using its long tail for climbing in dense, soft-leafed vegetation of the Poaceae family. Its green body provides excellent camouflage, making it difficult to spot in the wild.
Diet:
The species feeds primarily on insects found in the surrounding forest.
Activity:
The lizard is most active during the rainy season and has not been observed during the dry season.
Generation length: Missing Info
Movement patterns: Active forager during the day; no migratory behavior observed.

Conservation and status: Current conservation status: Listed as Vulnerable due to its restricted range and continued habitat loss. The species is only known from three locations, each facing ongoing habitat degradation.
Threats:
The primary threat is habitat loss from deforestation and conversion of forest land to agriculture.
Protected areas: The species is found in protected areas, including Nui Ong Nature Reserve and Phuoc Binh National Park, but habitat degradation continues to pose a risk to its survival.