agamidae
Squamata
Reptilia
About two months.
each clutch of 2 to 8 eggs.
Omnivore. Although it mainly feeds on plant matter such as leaves and stems, it sporadically eats insects and crustaceans.
Between 20-25 years.
Their body is covered with scales and between their fingers, they have membranes that allow them to “walk” on the water, especially the younger specimens, since they weigh less. On the nape of the neck, from the neck to the back, adults have a tooth-shaped keratin ridge. The most distinctive feature of males is the erect crest at the base of the tail, which can reach 8 centimeters in height. It helps them propel themselves through the water, mark their territory and plays a very important role in thermoregulation, since it acts like a solar panel and more quickly absorbs the heat so necessary for reptiles.
Females breed once a year but can lay several clutches of eggs in one season. Each clutch contains approximately 2 to 8 eggs and they are buried in a shallow hole dug in the ground near the water's edge. The young emerge after about two months and are active and agile, allowing them to escape from numerous predators.
As soon as they are born, they jump into the water to protect themselves from predators such as snakes, birds or fish. When they feel threatened, the adults act the same, they dive to the deepest part of the river and wait for the danger to pass. They can remain submerged for up to 15 minutes.
