Chalarodon steinkampi is a species of Malagasy terrestrial iguanian lizards. It was recognised as a new species in 2015,[1] which is probably microendemic to a small area in south eastern Madagascar.
| Chalarodon steinkampi | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification 
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| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Reptilia |
| Order: | Squamata |
| Suborder: | Iguania |
| Family: | Opluridae |
| Genus: | Chalarodon |
| Species: | C. steinkampi
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| Binomial name | |
| Chalarodon steinkampi Miralles, Glaw, Ratsoavina & Vences, 2015
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Habitat edit
The species inhabits areas very similar to its sister species, Chalarodon madagascariensis: semi-arid to arid regions with sandy soil that are mostly open.
Distribution edit
This species is currently only known from two locations: a locality 30 km north of Amboasary, and Esomony.[1]
Morphology edit
Calarodon steinkampi is a cryptic species. It is easiest distinguished from C. madagascariensis by its unkeeled gular and ventral scales, which are keeled in the latter species.[1] Other subtle differences include the mental scale being in contact with four postmentals (rather than 5–8), slightly shorter limbs, and fewer spines in its dorsal crest.[1]
Nutrition edit
The Madagascar sand lizards are insectivores. In addition to insects, sometimes plants are ingested, particularly in the form of leaves and roots.
References edit
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