Kingdom Animalia Phylum Chordata Rank Species | Family Lacertidae Higher classification Lacerta Order Scaled reptiles | |
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Genus Atlantolacerta
Arnold et al., 2007 Scientific name Atlantolacerta andreanskyi Similar Reptile, Lacertids, Parvilacerta, Lacerta, Moroccan rock lizard | ||
The Atlas dwarf lizard (Atlantolacerta andreanskyi) is the only species of genus Atlantolacerta in the wall lizard family, Lacertidae. It is endemic to Morocco, where it is restricted to High Atlas Mountain range. It is also found from 2,400 up to 3,800 m above sea level. Although this species is generally considered to be rare, animals are often well hidden in vegetation and may occur at higher densities than was first assumed. They can be very common in favourable conditions and are found in alpine meadows, scree, amongst boulders, and in areas of thorn cushion vegetation and thickets. They have long hibernation periods. The females lay three clutches of between one and three eggs per year. The species does not appear to be threatened, but it does occur in readily accessible areas, most especially by hikers.