Names

 ایگوانا :Persian Name

إغوانا :Arabic Name

English Name: Iguana

Scientific Name: Iguana

General Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Reptilia

Order: Squamata

Family: Iguanidae

Habitat

Iguanas are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, from southern Mexico and the Caribbean to Paraguay and Brazil. They primarily inhabit tropical rainforests, often near water bodies and rivers, or in drier habitats but with access to dense vegetation. Iguanas are largely arboreal, spending most of their time in trees

Conservation Status

Some iguana species, such as the Green Iguana, are listed as “Least Concern” by the IUCN. However, other species, particularly those endemic to islands, are categorized as Vulnerable, Endangered, or even Critically Endangered due to habitat loss, invasive species, and hunting.

Diet

Iguanas are primarily herbivorous, feeding on leaves, flowers, and fruits from trees and plants. They have a diverse diet and may, in rare instances, consume small insects or arthropods, especially when young

Threatening Factors

The most significant threats to iguanas include habitat destruction and loss due to urbanization, agriculture, and deforestation; hunting by humans for the pet trade and meat consumption; and competition or predation by invasive species like cats and dogs

Gestation Period

The gestation period (from egg laying to hatching) for iguanas is approximately 65 to 75 days

Number of Offspring

The number of eggs laid in a single clutch typically ranges from 20 to 70 eggs

Age of Maturity

Iguanas reach sexual maturity at around 2 to 4 years of age

Lifespan

The lifespan of iguanas in the wild is about 8 years, and in captivity, they can live up to 20 years or more

Body Length

The body length of iguanas (from head to tail tip) can reach 1.5 to 2 meters

Height

Iguanas do not have a distinct height due to their short legs and flattened bodies; when crawling on the ground, they are less than 30 cm tall

Body Weight

The body weight of iguanas (depending on species and age) can vary from 1 to 8 kilograms

Interesting Facts

Iguanas have the ability to change their skin color to regulate body temperature and communicate with their surroundings. They can detach their tails when threatened to escape from predators

Introduction

Iguanas are fascinating and large reptiles primarily residing in the warm, tropical regions of the Americas, renowned for their distinctive appearance and diverse colorations. These animals are predominantly arboreal, spending their lives atop tree branches, where they are both safe from predators and have access to their plant-based food sources. They play a crucial role as primary consumers in forest ecosystems

These calm yet agile reptiles, with their keen eyesight and excellent vision, can easily monitor their surroundings. Unique abilities such as changing skin color for camouflage or temperature regulation, as well as the capacity to shed their tails in emergencies, have made them highly adaptable creatures. Unfortunately, some species face significant population declines due to human activities

Protecting the natural habitats of iguanas and preventing the illegal trade of these animals are among the most important measures undertaken to conserve these valuable species. A deeper understanding of their behavior and biological needs can contribute to more effective planning for their long-term survival, ensuring their role in maintaining natural balance