Komodo Dragon

13-10-2024

12:04 PM

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1 min read
Komodo Dragon Blog Image

Overview:

The Indonesian government is proposing partial closures of Komodo National Park in 2025 to ease the strain from the increasing number of visitors drawn to its unique ecosystem.

About Komodo Dragon:

  • It is the largest extant lizard species.
  • Scientific Name: Varanus komodoensis
  • It is a monitor lizard of the family Varanidae.
  • It occurs on Komodo Island and a few neighbouring islands of the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia. 
  • Features:
    • The lizard grows to 3 metres (10 feet) in total length and attains a weight of about 135 kg (about 300 pounds). 
    • Their tongues are yellow and forked.
    • Adults are an almost-uniform stone color with distinct, large scales, while juveniles may display a  and pattern. more vibrant color
    • Although most young are produced through sexual reproduction, females that are isolated from males sometimes produce offspring through parthenogenesis
    • They are well-known for their venomous bite, which contains toxins that cause massive blood loss and shock in their prey. 
    • They can run swiftly and occasionally attack and kill human beings.
    • Lifespan: 30 years
  • Conservation Status:
    • IUCN Red List: Endangered 

Q1: What are Monitor Lizards?

They are a group of large reptiles belonging to the family Varanidae. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with long bodies, powerful limbs, and well-developed tails. They are considered to be the most intelligent of all lizards and some of the most intelligent reptiles in general. They are mainly native to Asia, Africa, and Australia.

Source: Home of the Komodo dragon under pressure from tourists