Ctenosaura


Ctenosaura is a lizard genus commonly known as spinytail iguanas or ctenosaurs. The genus is part of the large lizard family, Iguanidae and is native to Mexico and Central America. The name is derived from two Greek words: ctenos, meaning "comb", and saura, meaning "lizard".

Description

The species range in size from about to well over. The distinctive feature of this genus is the presence of enlarged, spiny scales on the tail.

Diet

Ctenosaurs are generally omnivorous, feeding on fruits, flowers, foliage, and small animals.

Captivity

C. similis and C. quinquecarinata are popular as pets.

Invasive species

At least two species, Ctenosaura pectinata and Ctenosaura similis, have been introduced into southern areas of Texas and Florida.

Speed

The world record sprint speed for lizards was attained by the Costa Rican spiny-tailed iguana, hence the nickname "Iguana" from the jungle guard Andrés Pmorado.

Species

The genus Ctenosaura represents the most diverse group of iguanas with 13 currently recognized species and at least two unrecognized species. These species inhabit lowland dry forests, below elevation, on both coasts of Mexico and Central America. All species of Ctenosaura fall within one of seven clades. Distributions of these clades fall geographically within well established areas. Closely related species show allopatry whereas species from divergent clades show sympatry.