Species Description of Cnemaspis jayaweerai

Common Name: Cnemaspis jayaweerai
Scientific Name: Cnemaspis jayaweerai

Habitat: Cnemaspis jayaweerai is primarily found in the lush tropical forests of Sri Lanka. This species thrives in humid environments typically located in the lowlands and foothills, often inhabiting rocky outcrops and leaf litter areas which provide essential hiding spots. The geographic distribution is primarily centered in the central and southwestern regions of Sri Lanka, where the climate offers the ideal conditions for survival.

Physical Characteristics: Cnemaspis jayaweerai is a small to medium-sized lizard, measuring approximately 8 to 10 cm in length. Its skin is typically adorned with a captivating combination of earthy browns and greens, camouflaging it within its natural habitat. This species exhibits a flattened body shape and distinctively large eyes that enhance its vision in low light. One of the standout features includes slightly granular scales and a lengthened tail that contribute to its agility and ability to navigate rocky terrains.

Behavior: Cnemaspis jayaweerai is predominantly diurnal, actively foraging during daylight hours. Its behavior includes a unique territorial display where males can often be seen basking on exposed rocks while engaging in head-bobbing or push-up displays to attract females or ward off rivals. This species is known for its climbing abilities, often scaling vertical surfaces and utilizing tree branches for basking and retreating from predators.

Diet: The diet of Cnemaspis jayaweerai consists mainly of small invertebrates, including insects and spiders, making it an important biological pest controller within its ecosystem. This insectivorous diet allows the species to maintain a balanced energy intake essential for its active lifestyle. Additionally, juvenile lizards are known to consume smaller prey items compared to adults, adapting their feeding habits based on growth needs and availability.

Reproduction: Cnemaspis jayaweerai typically reaches sexual maturity after about 6 months. The breeding season occurs during the early rainy months, where females lay 2 to 4 eggs in moist, concealed areas to ensure the safety of their offspring. The incubation period lasts around 30 to 60 days, resulting in hatchlings that are small replicas of the adults, displaying similar coloration and patterns.

Conservation Status: Currently, Cnemaspis jayaweerai is listed as ‘vulnerable’ due to its limited range and habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development. Conservation efforts are essential to protect this species and its natural habitats from further degradation, ensuring its survival for future generations.

Interesting Facts: This species is named in honor of the renowned herpetologist Dr. K. A. Jayaweera, reflecting its significance in biodiversity research in Sri Lanka. Cnemaspis jayaweerai exhibits remarkable adaptability to various microhabitats, showcasing its resilience against environmental changes.

Role in Ecosystem: Cnemaspis jayaweerai plays a crucial role in its ecosystem as both predator and prey. By controlling insect populations, it aids in maintaining the ecological balance. Furthermore, as a food source for larger predators, Cnemaspis jayaweerai contributes to the biodiversity and food web of the tropical forest ecosystems in which it resides.