AnimaliaHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Ameiva undulata
Rainbow Ameiva
Wiegmann, 1834
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A fast-moving, slender lizard with a pointed snout, smooth scales, and a vibrant pattern featuring wavy lateral stripes that give it its name.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
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Under Review
Other Names (Global)Regional and multilingual names used for this species across different countries and languages.
Rainbow AmeivaChisbala arcoírisLagartija corredora
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Arthropoda
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Reptilia
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Squamata
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Teiidae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Ameiva
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Wiegmann, 1834
Record Completeness
94%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Breeding SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Insectivore
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Inhabits open areas, forest edges, gardens, and clearings; frequently seen foraging on the ground.BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
Diurnal, terrestrial; highly active during the day, frequently seen darting across paths.Social ActivitySocial structure: whether the species is solitary, paired, or colonial; hierarchy and communication. Multi-lang
Often observed in loose groups; males may engage in aggressive chasing of rivals.Feeding GuildWhat the species eats, how it forages or hunts, and its role as a consumer in the food web. Multi-lang
Insectivore.Trophic Chain DetailsSpecific interactions in local food webs: prey species, predators, competitors, and scavengers. Multi-lang
Generalist insectivore: feeds on a variety of small invertebrates, including spiders, beetles, and larvae.Reproductive BehaviourMating strategies, courtship displays, nesting or spawning behavior, and parental care. Multi-lang
Oviparous; eggs are deposited in burrows or under leaf litter.Physical Measures
Length (cm)
15.0 - 25.0 cm
Weight (Grams)
10 g - 30 g
Offspring per cycleTypical number of young (live births, eggs, or seeds) produced by one adult in a single reproductive event or breeding season.2 - 6
Sexual DimorphismObservable physical differences between males and females of the same species (e.g., size, coloration, features).Yes
Lifespan
Sexual MaturityAge at which the individual becomes capable of reproducing for the first time.
1 - 2 Years
Gestation / IncubationDuration from fertilization to birth (mammals) or to hatching (egg-laying species).
45 - 60
Lifespan EstimatedExpected duration of life from birth to natural death under wild conditions.
Males3 - 5 Years
Females3 - 5 Years
Sexual DimorphismPhysical differences in size, coloration, or morphology between males and females of this species.
Males Multi-lang
Males are generally larger with more intense blue or turquoise coloration on the sides.
Females Multi-lang
Females are smaller and often exhibit more subtle or brown-toned markings.
Evolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Extremely fast speed allows for rapid escapes; highly developed foraging behavior for locating prey in leaf litter.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Generally tolerant of human disturbance; however, threatened by local pet trade and road mortality.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
They are constantly in motion while foraging, flicking their tongues to detect prey like a snake.