Leiolepis


Leiolepis, commonly known as butterfly lizards or butterfly agamas, are group of agamid lizards. They are native to Peninsular Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Indonesia, Ryukyu Islands, Vietnam, and Hainan. The genus includes both sexual and asexual species. Leiolepis is the sole genus of subfamily Leiolepidinae.

Description and ecology

Leiolepis are moderately sized lizards with the largest snout-to-vent length of. Sexual species show sexual dimorphism. They are diurnal and live in flat, open areas with loose soil, which allows them to construct long, interconnected burrows used for refuge. They are omnivorous.

Species

At least nine species are recognized as being valid.
Nota bene: A binomial authority in parentheses indicates that the species was originally described in a genus other than Leiolepis.
Asexual species have arisen through hybridization of sexually-reproducing species.

Relationship to humans

Captivity

Butterfly lizards are popular in the pet trade.

Consumption

In the northeast region of Thailand it is popular to catch butterfly lizards and eat them. In the South Central Coast region of Vietnam, especially in Ninh Thuan Province, Leiolepis is considered a delicacy for its nutrional value and can fetch high prices on the market.

Traditional game

In Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, Thailand, there is a traditional game called "yæ̂ lng rū".