Cryptagama

Cryptagama
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Reptilia
Order: Squamata
Suborder: Iguania
Family: Agamidae
Genus: Cryptagama
Witten, 1984
Species:
C. aurita
Binomial name
Cryptagama aurita
(Storr, 1981)
Distribution of Cryptagama aurita
Synonyms
  • Amphibolurus auritus
    (Storr, 1981)
  • Tympanocryptis aurita
    (Storr, 1981)

Cryptagama aurita, commonly known as the gravel dragon or hidden dragon, is a species of agamid lizard occurring in the arid north-eastern interior of Western Australia and the adjacent area of the Northern Territory. Cryptagama aurita is the only species in its genus.

Description

Adult Cryptagama aurita are very squat, with short limbs with a blunt-tipped tail that is shorter than its body. They range in colour from pale reddish brown to brick red, with pale brownish grey on its head and back. They reach a total length (including tail) of about 7.4 cm (2.9 in). Living in areas of spinifex and gibber plains, they have evolved to mimic the look of a gibber stone.