Basiliscus (genus)

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{{Taxobox | color = pink | name = Basiliscus | image = Unknow lizard2 belize.jpg | image_width = 200px | image_caption = Striped Basilisk | regnum = Animalia | phylum = Chordata | classis = Reptilia | ordo = Squamata | subordo = Sauria | familia = Corytophanidae | genus = Basiliscus | subdivision_ranks = Species | subdivision = Basiliscus basiliscus
Basiliscus galeritus
Basiliscus plumifrons
Basiliscus vittatus

}}

Basiliscus is a genus of lizards that includes the basilisks.

1 Physiology
2 The Miracle
3 Habitat
4 Classification
5 External links

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Physiology

With mackled blue spots and a yellow iris, the basilisk can reach 0.70 cm (0.3 in) in size. They range in weight from 0.01 ounces (2 grams) to 7 ounces (200 grams). Its growth is perpetual, fast when they are young and nonlinear for mature basilisks. Its long crest-like sails reinforced in three distinct points (head, back, and tail) confers the impression of creatures such as Dimetrodon and Spinosaurus. Its skin is shed in pieces.

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The Miracle

The basilisk sometimes walks as a biped. Basilisks have the unique ability to "walk" on water and, because of this, have coined the title as "The Jesus Lizard" with religious connotations to the biblical passage of Matthew 14:22-34. On water, the basilisk can run at a velocity of 1.5 metres (5 feet) a second for approximately 4.5 metres (15 feet) before sinking on all fours and swimming.

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Habitat

They are generally found in Latin America, anywhere there's a body of water (usually from Central Mexico to Ecuador). Although it has recently been introduced to Florida.

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