Oplurus cuvieri
Oplurus cuvieri, commonly known as the collared iguanid lizard, collared iguana, Madagascan collared iguana, or Cuvier's Madagascar swift, is a species of arboreal Malagasy iguana, the largest of six species in the genus Oplurus.Etymology
The specific name, cuvieri, is in honor of French naturalist Georges Cuvier.Description
As the common names suggest, O. cuvieri has a distinctive black collar that stands out against the body which is speckled with lighter spots. It has a large head, and the relatively short tail has spiny scales. The female is a duller brown colour.
The images below show considerable variation in markings and coloration.The collared iguana is found in the western tropical forests of Madagascar and on Grand Comore Island.Subspecies
Two subspecies are recognized.
- Oplurus cuvieri cuvieri – Madagascar
- Oplurus cuvieri comorensis – Grand Comore Island
Diet
O. cuvieri has a mostly carnivorous diet.Reproduction
Breeding of O. cuvieri is timed with the rainy season.
