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Microlophus albemarlensis (female)
The females look quite different, being less colourful and smaller (this specimen measured around 7cm, excluding the tail). They do, however, display these bright orange/red cheek patches, which are also an indicator for sexual maturity. Base colour is a yellowish brown with grey. The scales are keeled and pointy, but the overall appearance is not as 'spiky' as the males.
Found on lava rocks at Darwin Research Station. This species is endemic to the Galápagos Islands.
Lava lizards belong to the Iguanidae family, being related to Iguanas. Some authors consider the Santa Cruz population to be a different species - Microlophus indefatigabilis.
Spotted on Jun 18, 2017
Submitted on Jun 18, 2017
4 Comments
Thanks, Daniele! I find it very interesting how much variation can be found in a single species of Lava Lizard.
Great to see all your contributions to the Galapagos Biodiversity mission Felix!
Thanks, Zlatan :-)
wow, beautiful one.