About Anatololacerta anatolica (Werner, 1900)
Common Name and Size
Anatololacerta anatolica, commonly known as the Anatolian rock lizard, reaches a snout-to-vent length of approximately 7.5 centimeters (3.0 inches), with a tail twice as long as its body.
Body Shape and Marking Variability
Its head and body are somewhat flattened, and its markings are quite variable.
Base Color and Dorsal Spots
The lizard's base body color is dark olive-brown, and it usually has two rows of pale spots along its dorsal-lateral sides. These spots may merge together to form continuous lines.
Dorsal Speckling
The areas between these lines have additional pale speckling.
Underpart Coloration
The throat can be reddish, while the rest of the underparts are pale, and sometimes a few dark spots appear on the flanks.
Icaria Population Markings
Populations of this lizard on the island of Icaria have especially bold, contrasting markings.
Overall Distribution Range
The Anatolian rock lizard is endemic to the western Anatolian peninsula of Turkey, located north of the Büyük Menderes River, as well as several Greek islands near the Anatolian coast.
Specific Island Distribution
It can be found on the islands of Samos, Icaria, and Thymaina.
Altitude Range
This species occurs at altitudes up to 1,700 meters (5,600 feet).
Primary Habitat Types
Its typical habitat includes rocky outcrops, cliffs, boulders, and dry stone walls.
Additional Habitat Locations
It is often found in rocky areas within woodland, and near streams in locations that are otherwise arid.
