Orlov’s Forest Lizard – Bronchocela orlovi – Hallermann, 2004

Science name: Bronchocela orlovi – Hallermann, 2004

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

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: LC (Least Concern)

Description:

Physical characteristics:
Bronchocela orlovi has a snout-vent length of 109.6 mm, with a triangular head and short snout. It features a prominent nuchal crest composed of spines that extend down the back, and a very long tail measuring 372 mm. The body is covered in keeled scales, with 43 scales around the mid-body, and the dorsal spines gradually decrease in size towards the tail.
Coloration (in life):
The body and tail are green, with a white belly. The sides of the body have a white stripe running from the ears down to near the end of the tail, interspersed with brown scales. The front and hind toes are a lighter brown.
Coloration (preserved):
The body and head turn a metallic blue color, with a large brown patch on the right side extending from the forelimb to the mid-body. The ventral side becomes gray.

Distribution and habitat:

Elevation: Found at elevations up to 750 meters.
Area: Endemic to southern Vietnam, specifically Buon Luoi, Gia Lai Province.
Habitat: This species inhabits primary evergreen forests in mid-hill regions. It relies on forested areas with ample cover and foliage, especially in moist lowland forest environments.
System: Terrestrial
Habitat type: Subtropical/Tropical Moist Lowland Forest

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle:
This species is diurnal and arboreal, primarily foraging for insects during the day in dense forested areas. The long tail aids in climbing among soft leaves and tall grass of the Poaceae family. Bronchocela orlovi uses its body color to blend in with the surrounding foliage, making it well camouflaged.
Diet:
Insects, including grasshoppers and beetles, are its primary food source.
Generation length: Missing Info
Movement patterns: Active during the rainy season, with no recorded activity during the dry season.
Congregatory behavior: Solitary; typically not found in groups.

Conservation and status:

Current conservation status: Data Deficient, as the species is known only from the type locality, which has experienced significant habitat destruction. However, it is believed that suitable habitats may still exist in nearby areas.
Threats: Habitat loss due to deforestation is the primary threat, as much of the primary forest in its known habitat has been destroyed.
Protected areas: No specific protected areas are known to be preserving the habitat of Bronchocela orlovi at this time. Further fieldwork is necessary to determine if subpopulations persist in nearby areas.