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Dracaena paraguayensis

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Dracaena paraguayensis
CITES Appendix II (CITES)[1]
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Family: Teiidae
Genus: Dracaena
Species:
D. paraguayensis
Binomial name
Dracaena paraguayensis
Amaral, 1950

Dracaena paraguayensis, the Paraguay caiman lizard, is a species of lizard in the family Teiidae.[2] It is found in Northern Paraguay, Brazil and Bolivia.

Description

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Paraguay caiman lizards are closely related to the more well known northern caiman lizard, from which it differs especially in coloration, having light brown scales with dark banding rather than its relatives distinctive bright green and red. These lizards are known as 'caiman lizards' because of their noticeable resemblance to crocodilians, having rows of raised spikes in a croc-like arrangement.

They generally prefer dry climates and can often be found along the banks for rivers. Like all water tegus, they are semi-aquatic.

References

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  1. ^ "Appendices | CITES". cites.org. Retrieved 2022-01-14.
  2. ^ Dracaena paraguayensis at the Reptarium.cz Reptile Database. Accessed 2 July 2019.