At a glance
- IUCN category
- EN · Endangered
- Animal group
- Reptiles & Amphibians
- Population trend
- Decreasing
- Last verified
Conservation overview
The Chinese crocodile lizard is a semi-aquatic lizard with crocodile-like ridges along its tail. It is assessed as Endangered.
It rests on branches over water and drops in to escape danger.
Range & habitat
Streams and forests of southern China and northern Vietnam.
Major threats
Threats below are drawn from the authoritative sources listed on this page. For the current, complete assessment, see the IUCN Red List.
- Collection for the pet trade
- Habitat loss
- Pollution
Why it matters
A 'living fossil' semi-aquatic lizard, the Chinese crocodile lizard is a flagship for protecting clean forest streams in southern China and Vietnam.
Sources
Sources for Chinese Crocodile Lizard
- IUCN Red List — look up Chinese Crocodile Lizard (authoritative status)
- reptile-database.reptarium.cz
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called a crocodile lizard?
Two raised ridges of enlarged, bony scales run along its tail, resembling the armoured tail of a crocodile, though it is a true lizard.
Why is the Chinese crocodile lizard Endangered?
Published assessments cite collection for the pet trade, habitat loss, and pollution of its stream habitats. See the IUCN Red List.
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