About Oplurus cyclurus (Merrem, 1820)
Oplurus cyclurus (Merrem, 1820) is visually similar to the closely related species Oplurus cuvieri, and the two can easily be confused with one another. Oplurus cyclurus is slightly smaller than Oplurus cuvieri. Both species share two key traits: they each have a characteristic large, spiny tail, and neither species has a dorsal crest. Oplurus cyclurus can be distinguished by a dark brown or black band that encircles its neck, and matching paler patterned markings across its back. This species is mostly arboreal, and inhabits the spiny forests of southern and southwestern Madagascar. Oplurus cyclurus reproduces by laying eggs, meaning it is oviparous.
