Nonnatives - Indochinese Tree Agama

Indochinese Tree Agama - Calotes mystaceus

Florida's Exotic Wildlife. Species detail.

First year: 1990s

Extirpated year:

Established status: Species are present but not confirmed to be breeding. Population persists only with repeated introductions and/or escapes of individuals.

Estimated Florida range: 2 counties  Less than 10 years

Statewide trend: Unknown status

Threats to natives: Unknown, but may prey upon smaller vertebrates, such as other lizards.

Species Account: At least 2 small colonies of this Asian lizard exist around reptile dealerships in Glades and Okeechobee counties. Although few hatchlings have been reported, the persistence of these colonies for several years indicates that some recruitment has occurred. This is a slender, arboreal lizard that attains a total length of 38 cm (15 in). These alert, agile lizards often bask and forage close to the ground but quickly ascend trees when frightened. Males in Florida have a grayish body and bluish head, and the throat becomes orangish during the breeding season. Females are brownish with darker crossbars and longitudinal dorsolateral stripes. Both sexes have a dark shoulder spot and a prominent crest on the neck. In the pet trade, this species is also referred to as a "bloodsucker" (Bartlett and Bartlett 1999).

Habitats: Low density suburban development, areas peripheral to core urban areas, and small towns

References

Bartlett, R. D., and P. P. Bartlett. 1999. A field guide to Florida reptiles and amphibians. Gulf Publishing Company, Houston, Texas. 278pp.

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