About Lophosaurus spinipes (Duméril, 1851)
Crest and Brow Morphology
The southern angle-headed dragon, Lophosaurus spinipes, has a large, continuous nuchal crest and a moderately large vertebral crest. A pronounced angular brow is present on both adults and juveniles.
Size Measurements
The species has a snout to vent length of roughly 110 to 150 mm (4.3 to 5.9 in), and a long tail brings its total length to 350 mm (14 in).
Coloration
Its base colour ranges across shades of brown, grey, and green. Where patterns occur, they are made up of various irregular mottling, blotches, and variegations.
Core Distribution Range
L. spinipes is native to eastern Australian rainforests and rainforest margins, ranging from around Gosford in New South Wales to near Gympie in Queensland.
Additional Occurrence Location
It also occurs in Barrington Tops National Park, New South Wales.
Oviposition Nest Sites
Females lay eggs in shallow nests located in rainforest clearings, including along road edges and walking tracks. Some evidence indicates that females will occasionally lay communal nests.
Egg Predation Risk
The eggs are vulnerable to predation, most notably by goannas.
