Chinese crocodile lizard

Chinese crocodile lizard tail ( Shinisaurus crocodilurus )

The Chinese crocodile lizard tail ( Shinisaurus crocodilurus ) is one of the rarest species of reptiles at all. It was formerly placed in the family of the bumps lizards ( Xenosauridae ), but is now assigned to a monotypic family, the Shinisauridae.

Description

The Chinese crocodile lizard tail reaches a length of 40-45 cm. The name derives from the scales on the tail, which is strongly reminiscent of crocodilians. The coloring of the skin is predominantly brown. The belly is yellowish to reddish. Overall, males are strongly colored than females. The Chinese crocodile lizard tail has a strong connection to the water. You can linger over half an hour under water. They can close their eyelids. The skinning is performed under water. During the winter months it keeps hibernation for 3 to 4 months.

1990, this lizard has been included in Appendix II of CITES. At that time it was estimated that the total population at 2,500 copies. In 2005, the wild stocks have fallen to between 600 and 800 animals. Main reasons for the sharp decline in population, the destruction of habitats and the fishing for trade and medicine.

Dissemination

This rare lizard is in the wild only in two very limited areas. Firstly, there is a population of about 600 animals in the Chinese province of Guangxi and on the other a second population of uncertain size in Vietnam. The lizard preferred moist to semi- humid climate. Their habitats are restricted to small areas of slowly flowing waters and lakes and ponds with dense Uferbewachsung. It is found at altitudes of up to 700 meters.

Food

The Chinese alligator tail lizard feeds mainly on water crabs, small amphibians, tadpoles and worms. But insects and the hatching of rodents are eaten.

Reproduction

Very little is known about the reproduction in their natural habitats. The lizard is one of the viviparous reptiles. It brought 5-15 pups. The juveniles have a birth size of 10 to 15 cm and weigh an average of 5 grams.

System

The Chinese crocodile lizard tail was formerly placed in the Xenosauridae family along with the American cusp lizards ( Xenosaurus ). But molecular biological studies indicate more of a kinship with the dragons ( Varanidae ) and the Earless Monitor ( Lanthanotus borneensis ), while Xenosaurus is more closely related to the Sneak ( Anguidae ), the family Shinisauridae was erected for the alligator lizard tail.