Biology:Heliobolus lugubris
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Short description: Species of lizard
{{Speciesbox |name = Bushveld lizard |image = Piecemeal (47325322).jpeg |image2 = Heliobolus_lugubris.jpeg |image2_caption = adult and subadult | status = LC | status_system = IUCN3.1 | status_ref = [1] |taxon = Heliobolus lugubris |authority = (A. Smith, 1838) |synonyms = {{species list
| Lacerta lugubris | Smith, 1838Cite error: Closing </ref> missing for <ref> tag
Mimicry
Juveniles of H. lugubris are black with light spots and move with a hunched gait, mimicking the appearance of Anthia ground beetles. This mimicry is thought to discourage predation, as the beetles spray formic acid as a defense mechanism and are thus less appealing targets for predators. This is one of very few recorded examples of a vertebrate mimicking an invertebrate.[2]
References
- ↑ Alexander, G.J.; Tolley, K.A. (2021). "Heliobolus lugubris". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2021: e.T196975A147689194. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2021-2.RLTS.T196975A147689194.en. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/196975/147689194. Retrieved 25 February 2023.
- ↑ Huey, RB; Pianka, ER (January 1977). "Natural selection for juvenile lizards mimicking noxious beetles". Science 195 (4274): 201–203. doi:10.1126/science.831272. PMID 831272. Bibcode: 1977Sci...195..201H.
Further reading
- Branch, Bill (2004). Field Guide to Snakes and other Reptiles of Southern Africa. Third Revised edition, Second impression. Sanibel Island, Florida: Ralph Curtis Books. 399 pp. ISBN:0-88359-042-5. (Heliobolus lugubris, p. 161 + Plate 57).
Wikidata ☰ Q6456318 entry
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