AnimaliaIUCN LCIn Progress Recent Sighting
Basiliscus vittatus
Brown Basilisk
Wiegmann, 1828
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Brown lizard with yellowish side stripes and a small head crest (larger in males).
Added by
Gerardo Venegas
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Gerardo Venegas
Other Names (Global)
Pasaríos
Striped BasiliskJesucristoBasilisco caféTaxonomy
PhylumChordata
ClassReptilia
OrderSquamata
FamilyCorytophanidae
GenusBasiliscus
Taxonomic AuthorityWiegmann, 1828
Ecology & Status
Origin
Native
Population Trend
Stable
Breeding Season
Wet Season
Trophic Role
Omnivore
Recent Sightings
Yes
Habitat Summary Multi-lang
Inhabits near bodies of water, in secondary forests and river edges.Behaviour Multi-lang
Known for its ability to run on water for short distances.Social Activity Multi-lang
Generally solitary and very alert to the presence of predators.Feeding Guild Multi-lang
Omnivore. Eats insects, small vertebrates, flowers, and fruits.Trophic Chain Details Multi-lang
Intermediate consumer that helps control insect populations.Reproductive Behaviour Multi-lang
Oviparous. They lay several clutches of 3 to 12 eggs during the rainy season.Physical Measures
Length (cm)
40.0 - 60.0 cm
Weight (Grams)
100 g - 250 g
Offspring per cycle3 - 12
Sexual DimorphismYes
Lifespan
Sexual Maturity
1 - 2 Years
Gestation / Incubation
50 - 70
Lifespan Estimated
Males5 - 8 Years
Females5 - 8 Years
Sexual Dimorphism
Males Multi-lang
Males possess a much more developed and prominent cephalic crest than females.
Females Multi-lang
Females have a very small or reduced crest and are usually smaller in size.
Evolutionary Adaptations Multi-lang
Skin fringes on the toes of the hind feet that create air bubbles to float while running.
Main Threats Multi-lang
River pollution and fragmentation of riparian habitats.
Interesting Facts Multi-lang
They are named 'Jesus Christ lizard' for their ability to walk on water.
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