Congolacerta

Scientific Name

Common Name

Distribution

Size

Notes

Austrolacerta

C. asukului

Asukulu’s Grass Lizard

Democratic Republic of Congo

Described in 2011.

C. vauereselli

Sparse-Scaled Forest Lizard

W Uganda, W Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, C & E Democratic Republic of the Congo

6-7"

Formerly considered a member of the genus Adolfus. This species dwells in forest clearings at higher altitudes than A. jacksoni and is more tolerant of cooler temperatures [SKDA]. SKDA suggest that in most ways its behaviour and ecology are similar to that of A. africanus, which it replaces in some areas at higher elevations (1,000-2,400m). Scalation details (as given in SKDA): nostril in contact with 1st upper labial. Dorsal scales: smooth, 38-50 transverse rows at midbody, middorsal scales larger than those on flanks. Temporal scales: numerous small scales in temple region. Collar: 6-11 plates. Ventral scales: 6 longitudinal rows, outermost ventral scale rows incomplete and smooth. Other: 7-10 femoral pores beneath each thigh. Coloration: light yellow to copper-coloured in mid-dorsal band including top of head. Small dark spots on back, may form longitudinal mid-dorsal row. Flanks are rich reddish-brown edged with black above and 1-2 rows of white ocelli edged in black. Light streak from cheek to side of neck passes through ear opening. Reproduction: females lay clutches of (usually) 3-5 eggs, often in communal nesting sites: no other details as yet available.