Basiliscus is a genus of lizards that includes the basilisks.

Taxonomy and etymology

The Genus basiliscus is named for the creature of Greek mythology made up of parts of a rooster, snake, and lion which could turn a man to stone by its gaze: the Basilisk.^[1] This word derives from the Greek basilískos (??????????) meaning "little king". The specific epithet was given in Carolus Linnaeus' 10th edition of Systema Naturae.^[1]

Physiology

With mackled blue spots and a yellowIrish, its length is an average of about 70 to 75 cm (28 in - 30 in). The average weight is about 80 grams (3.2 oz). 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.

Running on water

The basilisk sometimes runs as a biped. Basilisks have the unique ability to "walk" on water and, because of this, they have been dubbed as "The Jesus Lizard" or "The Jesus Christ Lizard" in reference to the biblical passage of Matthew 14:22-34. On water, the basilisk can run at a velocity of 1.5 meters (4.8 feet) per second for approximately 4.5 meters (14.75 feet) before sinking on all fours and swimming. Flaps between their toes help support the basilisk, creating a larger surface and a pocket of air.

Habitat

They are generally found in Latin America anywhere there is a body of water (usually from Central Mexico to Ecuador). Recently introduced to Florida, it has adapted to the colder winters by burrowing into the leaf litter for warmth. Current reports sight the basilisk as far north as Fort Pierce, on the state's East Coast, where small groups have crept up the North Fork of the Saint Lucie River.

Classification

Genus Basiliscus

• Common basilisk, Basiliscus basiliscus
• Red-headed basilisk, Basiliscus galeritus
• Plumed basilisk, Basiliscus plumifrons
• Striped or Brown Basilisk, Basiliscus vittatus

See also

• Animal locomotion on the surface layer of water

References

External links

• Jesus Lizard Robot An attempt at building a robotic version of the Jesus Lizard
• How "Jesus Lizards" Walk on Water
• Jesus Lizards Walk on Water Video

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