Pogona minor

Pogona minor
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Suborder: Iguania
Family: Agamidae
Genus: Pogona
Species: P. minor
Binomial name
Pogona minor
Subspecies

Pogona minor minor
Pogona minor minima

Pogona minor is a species of agamid lizard from a group commonly known as bearded dragons, and is found on the southwest coast and interior of Western Australia. This taxonomic name includes the widespread type known as western bearded dragon, Pogona minor minor, and the subspecies, Pogona minor minima, confined to the Wallabi Group of islands.[1]

Description

Pogona minor minor lizards are large, 38 cm in length (15 cm from snout to vent), P. m. minima is slightly smaller. All bearded dragons have a chameleon-like colour, either blending into their environments or presenting brighter displays during interaction with others. They are similar in appearance to Pogona nullarbor and Caimanops amphiboluroides (mulga dragon), but are distinguished by smaller heads, and the arrangement of spines on their undersides and necks. The western bearded dragon is widespread in Southwest Australia and central deserts; the range includes semiarid regions such as woodland or heathland, and arid desert or coastal dunes. This subspecies also occurs on Dirk Hartog Island. Pogona minor minima is found on West, North, and East Wallabi Islands, Houtman Abrolhos.[1][2]

These dragons display a behaviour common to other Pogona species, they will wave one of their fore legs to trigger a response from a potential rival or mate. Another typical behaviour is head-bobbing amongst males, perhaps related to dominance within their social order. They are often seen basking on fence posts.[1]

See also

References

  1. 1 2 3 Browne-Cooper, Robert; Brian Bush; Brad Maryan; David Robinson (2007). Reptiles and Frogs in the Bush: Southwestern Australia. University of Western Australia Press. p. 160. ISBN 978-1-920694-74-6. Pogona minor minor, Abrolhos Bearded Dragon
  2. ↑ "Pogona minor minima (Abrolhos Bearded Dragon)". Specimen collections. Western Australian Museum. 2003. represented by 94 specimen records in museum collection. North, East Wallabi and West Wallabi Islands

Further reading


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