Cordylus tropidosternum
(Cope, 1869)
Vernacular names
English : East African spiny-tailed lizard
French : Cordyle épineux
Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Cordylidae
Notes : No subspecies known.
Identification
The species can reach 19 cm in length, tail included. Strongly keeled scales, even on throat. Tail very spiny. Coloration beige-brown with white and brown speckles and dark lines. Black band from ear to shoulder. Male’s head is larger.
Range and habitat
The species occurs in eastern Africa, from South-east Kenya and Tanzania to Mozambique, Malawi and west to north Zambia and south DR Congo. Lives in lowland dry forests.
Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species is widespread and common in suitable habitat in its large range. Often caught for wildlife trade but not legally protected.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known
Observation
