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Anolis viridulus
Species of lizard From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Anolis viridulus, also known as the western dwarf green anole, is a species of lizard (anole) in the family Dactyloidae.The species is endemic to western Cuba. [1]
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Taxonomy
This species was formally described in 2022 based on genetic and morphological distinctions from other Cuban green anoles. [1]
Phylogeny
A. viridulus is closely related to A. altitudinalis, A. oporinus, and A. toldo—species with restricted distributions in eastern Cuba. Phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequences confirmed that A. viridulus is genetically distinct, exhibiting 7–9% divergence from its closest relatives.[2]
Etymology
The specific epithet viridulus is derived from the Latin diminutive for "green", reflecting the vivid coloration and small size of this anole.[2]
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Description
A. viridulus is a small, compact species with a laterally depressed body and relatively flat head. Adults exhibit a maximum snout-vent length (SVL) of approximately 44.6 mm in males and 43.7 mm in females. The species is characterized by a combination of: short limbs and a tapering tail, smooth to slightly keeled body scales, squeaky vocalizations when handled. Furthermore, the species lacks the prominent white supralabial stripe and supraxillary spot found in A. altitudinalis. It also has distinct fourth toe lamellae counts and postmental scale patterns compared to other subgroup members.[2]
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Distribution
The species is found in the Cordillera de Guaniguanico, with known populations in Las Terrazas, Sierra del Rosario (Artemisa Province), and Moncada, Viñales (Pinar del Río Province). Its estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) is 860 km². [2]
Natural History
A. viridulus demonstrates territorial behaviors, with males showing lateral compression and dewlap extension when threatened. Tail injuries in captured specimens suggest physical interactions. They are primarily arboreal, walking with an upright posture on horizontal leaves. Specimens have been observed on Calophyllum antillanum, Cojoba arborea, and Zanthoxylum martinicense trees at heights of 1.6 to 4 meters.[2]
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Conservation
The species occurs within protected areas, including Sierra del Rosario Biosphere Reserve and Parque Nacional Viñales. Its restricted range and recent discovery underscore the need for conservation monitoring.[2]
References
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