Monkey anoles (Polychrus gutturosus) are neither monkeys nor anoles. So far the phylogenetic position of Polychrus gutturosus is poorly resolved.
In fact, Monkey anoles are not as closely related to anoles as they are to other lizards.
They actually are their own family of lizards and as lizards, they are part of the suborder Iguania which does include the anoles’ lizards but it also includes a lot of other animals like the iguanas and the chameleons.
One of their distinctive sign is their very long prehensile tail (probably ⅔ the length of the body) one of the longest tails among reptiles. Monkey Anoles are very good climbers and their very long tails are probably used in their climbing. They can actually rely on their tails the total weight of their bodies.
Quick Reference Section
- Scientific name: Polychrus gutturosus
- Synonyms: Polychrus (Chaunolaemus) multi carinatus, Polychrus spurrelli, Polychrus gutturosus spurrelli
- Alternate name: Berthold’s bush anole and forest iguana
- Family: Polychrotidae
- Genus: Polycrus
- Size: It can reach up to 70 cm (2.3 ft) in total length, including its very long tail
- Diet: Insectivorous
- Behavior: Diurnal
- Environment: Tropical
Interesting Facts About Monkey Anoles
According to The Reptile Database, the name gutturosus is Latin meaning ”with the enlarged throat,” and alludes to the extensible, saclike dewlap of males of this species.
It is controversial whether they drop their tails to escape from a predator or not as other lizards do.
In any case, it’s interesting to learn that researchers have found that the regenerated tail of a lizard is dramatically different from its original.
The tail that grows back, however, is composed of a rod made of cartilage and long muscle fibers that stretch the length of the regrown appendage, not the original design of small bones and short muscles.
Although it doesn’t have the function of the original, Tail 2.0 is nonetheless the result of genetic skills humans would like to learn more about. Especially if scientists could one day be able to use them to treat spinal cord injuries and diseases like arthritis.
Monkey Anoles can change color from green to brown and vice versa. The color changes are caused by hormones and can be triggered by temperature, background color or mood.
A hormone called intermedin secreted by the pituitary gland is responsible for these changes. Interestingly enough, they resemble Old World chameleons in both morphology and behavior.
These are slow-moving lizards with a laterally compressed body and cone-shaped eyes with partially fused eyelids.
But with that said, the monkey anole is just as apt to sit quietly and depends on its camouflage to avoid detection.
What Does The Monkey Anole Look Like?
Monkey lizards are unique among Neotropical arboreal lizards in having strikingly long whip-like tails, as well as long limbs and digits.
They have a laterally compressed body and cone-shaped eyes with partially fused eyelids.
Their color is some shades of green (occasionally blue-green) and there are broad paler bands that are edged in black.
As adult size they get up to around 14 inches, but the semi-prehensile tail accounts for two-thirds of that length Males are considerably smaller than females.
Where Can Monkey Anoles Be Found?
Monkey Anoles live in the jungles and forests of Central America and South America. In particular, they range from the Pacific coast in Ecuador and Colombia into Central America as far north as Nicaragua.
What Kind Of Habitat Does The Monkey Anole Live In?
This species is highly arboreal living its life in the trees and fauna of the forest.
What About Egg Hatching?
Eggs typically hatch in around 35 days, and hatchlings will start eating a few days after they have emerged from their egg.
What Does The Monkey Anole Eat?
They love bugs! And they particularly love crickets and hornworms!
How long does the Monkey Anole live?
With proper care, monkey anoles can live between 8 – 12 years in captivity.
What Predators Does The Monkey Anole Have?
The Monkey anole has many predators like birds, cats, and snakes; according to Herpetology Notes there is a published study about Monkey Anoles being predated by the parrot snake (Leptophis ahaetulla).
Where Can I Buy My Monkey Anole?
Unless you live in Florida and can get one from the wild (which we don’t recommend), you will have to buy one.
Monkey Anole Setup Checklist
As follows here is a checklist of relevant things you will need if you decide to get a monkey anole
1. Enclosure
To properly accommodate your pet Monkey Anole you will need at least a 20 inch tall tank (yes the enclosure should be large and tall!). The one pictured above is a the “Exo Terra High Glass Terrarium“. You’ll need a few additional items as well.
2. Substrate
A substrate is what goes on the bottom of the tank, and is also relevant. Eco Earth Coconut fiber is a great option. There are other brands available as well.
3. Lighting
Monkey anoles need UVA/UVB as well as heat. Getting a dual fixture like the one pictured above by WACOOL is a great option. You can add a WACOOL full spectrum UVA/UVB bulb along with an Exo Terra Heat-Glo Infrared spot bulb to ensure the heating is enough.
4. Temperature & Humidity
Be sure to monitor the temperature and humidity using a hygrometer and add a thermostat to the infrared bulb to ensure the enclosure doesn’t get too hot.
5. Humidity
Monkey anoles need 60-70% humidity constant in the cage to stay hydrated. Dehydration is one of the largest causes of reptile death. So, keeping humidity is more than relevant. Be sure to pick up a reptile humidifier like this one from BETAZOOER for it.
6. Accessories
Like any other reptile you should have a water source available for your pet. This one from Fluker’s is a nice option. You can also get some branches or other things as accessories to fill the enclosure out more.
7. Supplements
Ensuring your monkey anole has all the needed vitamins is crucial for its health. ZooMed has a great option that includes vitamin D3 (or you can choose it without).
Conclusion
Monkey Anoles make great pets, but even if they are good at interacting with humans, due to their delicacy, they are not advisable as pets for families with small children.
Another thing to take into account before acquiring a Monkey Anole is that even if they are relatively inexpensive pets, to care for them properly you would need to make some relevant investment for accommodation and maintenance.
More lizards
- Mexican Alligator Lizard Care Guide
- Knob-Tail Gecko Care Guide
- Red Headed Agama Care Sheet
- Mountain Horned Dragon Facts
- Cuban False Chameleon Care Sheet
- Spiny Tailed Lizard Care
- Jeweled Lacerta Care
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