All About Jesus Christ Lizards
Jesus Christ lizards, also known as basilisks, are a species of lizards native to Central and South America. They are among the most well-known of all the lizards, renowned for their ability to “run” on water. Jesus Christ lizards belong to the family Corytophanidae and the genus Basiliscus. They are small to medium sized reptiles, usually growing to between 12 and 20 inches in length and weighing up to 1.5 lbs.
Jesus Christ lizards are most commonly found residing near ponds and slow-moving rivers in humid tropical habitats. Their bodies are long and slender, with a pair of long hind legs and a long tail, both of which aid the lizard in its propulsion over water. They have circular scales on their bodies that help reduce turbulence when running on the water’s surface. They also have long, narrow, paddle-like toes, which further assist them in their pressure-light running.
The name “Jesus Christ lizard” is derived from the unique way in which these lizards can “run” across the surface of the water, as if they are walking on it. In order to do this, they rely on a combination of frictional force, set up by their running action, and the pressure exerted by their paddle-like feet. By running quickly, they create a thin layer of air beneath themselves which they can make use of to remain atop the water.
Despite their incredible water-walking ability, Jesus Christ lizards are still capable of being caught by a predator, and can even submerge underwater if necessary. When in danger, these lizards can hold their breath underwater for up to 30 minutes. They also have a relatively long life-span for a lizard of their size, with some individuals lasting for up to 10 years in the wild.
While Jesus Christ lizards certainly remain one of the most recognizable lizards in the world, their population is unfortunately in decline due to human interference. Their native habitats are being destroyed by deforestation, and many of the ponds and waterways that they rely on for food, water and shelter are becoming polluted. Additionally, they are threatened by the international pet trade and by the presence of invasive fish species, which can eat their eggs and young.
In order to help conserve the population of Jesus Christ lizards and protect their habitats, conservationists suggest strengthening existing protected areas and creating new ones that are specifically designed to conserve their populations. Additionally, minimizing pollution, enforcing bans on the international pet trade and maintaining healthy ecosystems can all play a role in the conservation of these unique lizards.
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