The Fiji crested iguana (Brachylophus vitiensis) belongs to the family Iguanidae.

 Interesting Facts

Prominent Characteristics: 

The Fiji crested iguana has a green body with a short head. Males display a pattern of blue or light green stripes along their bodies, while females are typically solid green, though they may occasionally have small white or light blue spots. The eyes are orange-red, and the nostrils are yellow. A distinct, sharp crest extends from the head to the tail. Hatchlings are initially dark green, but their color lightens to a brighter green over time, with narrow white stripes appearing along their bodies. Adults reach approximately 19 centimeters in length and weigh between 1.5 to 2 kilograms.

The Fiji crested iguana is typically found in the shade of trees. Its long toes and tail are crucial for efficient movement in trees. They also bask in the sun or seek warmth on cold days to regulate their body temperature.

Primary Diet:

The Fiji crested iguana is primarily herbivorous, subsisting on a diet of foliage, including leaves, flowers, and a variety of fruits. However, this species has been observed to exhibit omnivorous tendencies, occasionally consuming insects to supplement its dietary needs.

Habitat:
             Fiji crested iguanas are endemic to the Fijian archipelago, located in the South Pacific Ocean.

Reproduction:

Fiji crested iguanas exhibit distinct reproductive seasonality, with mating predominantly occurring during the wet season. Females construct subterranean burrows to serve as nesting sites, depositing clutches averaging five eggs. The incubation period spans 7 to 9 months, during which females display vigilant nest-guarding behaviors until the hatchlings emerge.

Lifespan: 

Under natural conditions, the Fiji crested iguana typically has a lifespan of 10-15 years. However, when maintained in captivity, these reptiles can live up to 25 years.

Conservation Status:

            The Fiji crested iguana is currently listed as Critically Endangered (CR) according to the extinction risk assessment by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

            The conversion of natural habitats to agricultural land and human settlements has resulted in deforestation, which, combined with predation by invasive species like feral cats and mongooses, has significantly impacted Fijian crested iguana populations.

Interesting Fact: 

The eggs of the Fiji crested iguana are leathery and white, with elliptical brown markings on the eggshell. These markings indicate the orientation of the developing embryo, providing insight into the anticipated hatching direction.