Cuban knight anole
(Anolis equestris persparsus)
This species is Introduced in the United States
Origin
Anolis equestris persparsus is native to Cuba. Cuban knight anole were likely introduced to the United States on shipping materials or as escaped/intentionally released pets.
Life Cycle
A. equestris persparsus is the largest Anolis species growing to a length of 13-19 in. (33-48 cm). Bright green to grayish-brown in coloration with males to exhibiting sexual dimorphism by having a pink throat fan for display. Adhesive toe pads allow the knight anole to move up and down quickly. Cuban knight anoles are diurnal with a diet that consists of invertebrates such as crickets, spiders, and cockroaches. Breeding of A. equestris persparsus occurs during summer months with females laying eggs.
Distribution
A. equestris persparsus are established in Florida.
Control Efforts
The effects of A. equestris persparsus are largely unknown. However, Cuban knight anoles can outcompete with native Anolis species.
https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Anolis_equestris/
Anolis equestris persparsus is native to Cuba. Cuban knight anole were likely introduced to the United States on shipping materials or as escaped/intentionally released pets.
Life Cycle
A. equestris persparsus is the largest Anolis species growing to a length of 13-19 in. (33-48 cm). Bright green to grayish-brown in coloration with males to exhibiting sexual dimorphism by having a pink throat fan for display. Adhesive toe pads allow the knight anole to move up and down quickly. Cuban knight anoles are diurnal with a diet that consists of invertebrates such as crickets, spiders, and cockroaches. Breeding of A. equestris persparsus occurs during summer months with females laying eggs.
Distribution
A. equestris persparsus are established in Florida.
Control Efforts
The effects of A. equestris persparsus are largely unknown. However, Cuban knight anoles can outcompete with native Anolis species.
https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Anolis_equestris/
Selected Images
Maps
EDDMapS Distribution - This map is incomplete and is based only on current site and county level reports made by experts, herbaria, and literature. For more information, visit www.eddmaps.org
State Lists - This map identifies those states that have this species on their invasive species list or law.
Invasive Listing Sources
Taxonomic Rank
| Domain: Eukarya |
| Kingdom: Animalia |
| Phylum: Chordata |
| Class: Reptilia |
| Order: Squamata |
| Family: Dactyloidae |
| Genus: Anolis |
| Species: Anolis equestris |
| Anolis equestris persparsus |
References
Common Name Reference: Integrated Taxonomic Information System on-line database.
Scientific Name Reference: Integrated Taxonomic Information System on-line database.