Ameiva ameiva: The colourful and agile lizard of the tropics.

The fascinating world of the Ameiva ameiva: Zandolie, Zandolee, or Jungle Runner

Most Caribbean children have memories of chasing an Ameiva ameiva lizard and just as you were about to catch it, turbo is engaged and while in full sprint takes off in double its original speed running only on its hind legs. This might explain the name ‘Jungle Runner’ as for the name ‘Zandolie’ no one really knows.

The Ameiva ameiva, commonly known as the Zandolie, Zandolee, or Jungle Runner, is a captivating lizard species that thrives in the tropical regions of Central and South America, as well as parts of the Caribbean.

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This agile reptile, belonging to the Teiidae family, is a master of adaptation, displaying a range of intriguing behaviours and characteristics that make it a subject of interest for both scientists and nature enthusiasts.

In this article, we delve into the ecology, behaviour, and unique traits of the Ameiva ameiva, offering a comprehensive look at this remarkable lizard.

Physical characteristics and sexual dimorphism

The Ameiva ameiva is a large-bodied lizard with a streamlined shape, pointed head, and slightly forked tongue. Its short legs and muscular hind limbs enable it to move swiftly, earning it the nickname “Jungle Runner”. This lizard exhibits sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females have distinct physical differences.

Males are generally larger, with a body length of up to 56 cm, compared to females, which measure around 49 cm. Males boast dull green backs and colourful flanks, while females have brighter green backs. Additionally, males possess relatively larger heads than females, a trait that becomes evident as they mature. Juveniles, on the other hand, have proportionally large heads for their body size, giving them a distinctive appearance.

The Ameiva ameiva chronicles: A deep dive into the Jungle Runner’s world.

Distribution and habitat

The Ameiva ameiva is widely distributed across Central and South America, including countries like Brazil, Panama, Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, and Colombia. This lizard prefers open tropical forests, woodlands, and agricultural lands, often basking in sunny, grassy areas.

Interestingly, Ameiva ameiva is commonly found in disturbed habitats, where temperatures are generally higher than in undisturbed forests. This preference for warmer environments is linked to their ectothermic nature, meaning they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature.

Activity patterns and thermoregulation

As diurnal creatures, Ameiva ameiva lizards are most active during the day. Studies in Brazil have shown that they are particularly active late in the morning and early in the afternoon. Juveniles are frequently seen at midday, while adults are more active during the morning and afternoon periods.

Their active body temperature averages around 37.9°C, which they maintain by basking in the sun and foraging in open areas. This behaviour not only helps them regulate their body temperature but also allows them to efficiently hunt for food.

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Diet and feeding habits

The Ameiva ameiva is an omnivorous lizard with a diverse diet that includes both vertebrates and invertebrates. Their primary food sources consist of grasshoppers, roaches, beetles, spiders, and insect larvae. They are also known to prey on other lizards, such as the anole.

Interestingly, there is a noticeable difference in the maximum and average prey sizes consumed by adults and juveniles. While adults can handle larger prey, they still consume smaller prey, suggesting potential competition between the two age groups. This dietary flexibility allows the Ameiva ameiva to thrive in various environments, making it a versatile predator.

Reproduction and lifecycle

Reproduction in Ameiva ameiva is seasonal, with the breeding period concentrated between May and October. Females lay clutches of 1 to 11 eggs, with the number of eggs and their sizes varying based on the female’s body size, particularly the snout-vent length.

After laying their eggs, females provide no parental care, but they ensure their eggs are well-nourished with ample nutrients. The eggs hatch after an incubation period, and the young lizards are left to fend for themselves. In the wild, Ameiva ameiva lizards have a lifespan of approximately 4.6 years.

The secret life of the Zandolie: Insights into the Ameiva ameiva.

Behaviour and adaptations

The Ameiva ameiva is known for its active and agile behavior. Like other members of the Teiidae family, these lizards dig single-opening burrows where they retreat to rest and remain inactive. Their streamlined bodies and powerful hind legs enable them to move quickly, aiding in evading predators such as birds. Burrowing also serves as a protective measure, allowing them to hide from potential threats.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Ameiva ameiva behaviour is the presence of femoral glands. These glands, located as a row of pores on the underside of their hind legs, play a crucial role in communication. They are used for sexual behaviour and territorial demarcation, helping males establish dominance and attract mates. This unique feature highlights the complex social interactions within the species.

Conservation status and ecological impact

As of 1996, the IUCN lists the related species Ameiva major, found in Martinique, as extinct. However, no other Ameiva species, including Ameiva ameiva, are currently listed on the IUCN Red List. Despite their relatively stable population, Ameiva ameiva lizards are known carriers of Salmonella, including strains that can infect humans. This underscores the importance of handling these lizards with care and maintaining proper hygiene when interacting with them.

Conclusion

The Ameiva ameiva, or Zandolie, is a fascinating lizard species that exemplifies the beauty and complexity of tropical ecosystems. From its striking physical characteristics and diverse diet to its unique behaviours and adaptations, this lizard continues to captivate those who study it.

Whether you encounter it in the wild or read about its intriguing life, the Ameiva ameiva is a testament to the wonders of the natural world. By understanding and appreciating this remarkable species, we can contribute to the conservation of its habitat and ensure that future generations can marvel at the Jungle Runner’s agility and resilience.

Source: https://sta.uwi.edu/fst/lifesciences/sites/default/files/lifesciences/images/Ameiva%20ameiva%20-%20Zandolie%20or%20Jungle%20Runner.pdf

References:

Anapsid.org. 1995. “Ameivas.” Accessed 1 April, 2015. http://www.anapsid.org/ameiva.html
Animal Diversity Web. 2014. “Ameiva ameiva: Giant Ameiva, Amazon Racerunner.” Accessed March 1, 2015. http://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Ameiva_ameiva/
Colli, Guarino R., and Laurie J. Vitt. 1994. “Geographical ecology of a Neotropical lizard: Ameiva ameiva (Teiidae) in Brazil.” Canadian Journal of Zoology 86(12): 1376-1388. doi: 10.1139/Z08-106
Kenny, Julian. 2008. The Biological Diversity of Trinidad and Tobago: A Naturalist’s Notes. United States: Prospect Press.

By exploring the life of the Ameiva ameiva, we gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate balance of nature and the remarkable adaptations that enable species to thrive in their environments. Whether you’re a seasoned herpetologist or a curious nature lover, the Jungle Runner is a species worth knowing.

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