Crocodilurus

Crocodilurus is a monotypic lizard genus consisting of one species, Crocodilurus amazonicus, belonging to the family Teiidae (tegus, ameivas and whiptails). Its common name is the crocodile tegu, due to its appearance and fondness for water, and is locally known as the jacarerana. This semi-aquatic, predatory lizard has a flattened, paddle-like tail, enabling it to swim with ease. Also it has a red coloration on its tail^[1][5]

Crocodile tegu
Artist's historical rendition.
Conservation status
Least Concern  (IUCN 3.1)[1]
CITES Appendix II (CITES)[2]
Scientific classification
Domain:	Eukaryota
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Reptilia
Order:	Squamata
Family:	Teiidae
Genus:	Crocodilurus Spix, 1825[3]
Species:	C. amazonicus
Binomial name
Crocodilurus amazonicus Spix, 1825[4]

Figurative name

The crocodile tegu has no close relation to crocodilians. The name Crocodilurus amazonicus ("Amazonian little crocodile") is only an analogy: It is a predatory reptile well adapted to living and hunting in water.

Distribution

C. amazonicus is found in the Amazon Basin and the Guiana Shield in South America.^[1][5]

Diet

C. amazonicus preys upon arthropods, fish, amphibians, and reptiles.^[1][5]

Amazonas, Brazil