The establishment and ecological threat of the lizard, Calotes versicolor (Squamata: Agamidae), in Madhepura, Bihar, India

Pranav Kumar Pratap^a*, Arun Kumar^a & R.B. Jha^b
aP.G. Department of Zoology, B.N. Mandal University, Madhepura, Bihar, India
^bR.M. College, Saharsa, Bihar, India
Received : 13^th May, 2018 ; Revised :04^th July, 2018

Abstract: There is evidence that the Calotes versicolor, the lizard, is now established on Madhepura (Bihar), and it is reported to be dispersing away from its original point of introduction. Collected data on its habitats, feeding habits, predators and parasites show that this species is adaptable, prolific and omnivorous, and it is considered to be an invasive alien species that competes with or feeds on native biota in some parts of the Bihar state, such as Purnea and Saharsa. These population need to be studied to prevent their potential ecological threat.

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