Distribution of the Green Forest Lizard Calotes calotes (Linnaeus, 1758) (Squamata: Agamidae) in India

Abstract

We analysed the distribution pattern in India, of the agamid lizard Calotes calotes based on localities of the many voucher specimens that we examined, direct field observations by us and literature records. Our preliminary MaxEnt analysis run based on 48 localities revealed that hilly terrain of the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats are the most ideal regions (>70% prediction) within its range. We also elaborate on the morphology of examined specimens, especially from the eastern parts of its Indian range, viz. the Coromandel Coastal Plains and the Eastern Ghats, so as to categorically confirm its occurrence in eastern parts of Southern India, where its presence had remained equivocal and contentious at best.