Basiliscus (lizard)

The genus *Basiliscus* consists of large lizards known as basilisks. These reptiles are part of the corytophanid family. They are found in the tropical rain forests of southern Mexico. Their range extends through Central America into northern South America. Many people recognize them by their amazing ability to move across water. This unique skill has earned them the nickname "Jesus Christ lizard."

To understand how they run on water, we must look at their feet. Basilisks possess special flaps located between their toes. When the lizard moves, these flaps spread out. This action creates a much larger surface area. The flaps also trap small pockets of air. This combination of surface area and air helps them stay above the water. They can run bipedally, or on two legs, at high speeds. They run across the surface for short distances before they sink. Once they sink, they transition to swimming on all fours.

There are currently four extant species within the *Basiliscus* genus. Each species lives in a specific geographic area. The common basilisk, *Basiliscus basiliscus*, lives from Nicaragua to Colombia. The western basilisk, or red-headed basilisk, *Basiliscus galeritus*, is found in western Colombia and Ecuador. The plumed basilisk, also called the green basilisk, *Basiliscus plumifrons*, lives in Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama. Finally, the brown basilisk, *Basiliscus vittatus*, is found in Mexico and Central America.

Humans have studied these lizards for many years. The name *Basiliscus* comes from the Greek word *basilískos*. This word means "little king." The species *vittatus* was named by the scientist Carl Linnaeus. He included this name in the 10th edition of his work, *Systema Naturæ*. In Latin, *vittatus* means "striped."

Basilisks have several interesting biological traits. Their growth is perpetual, meaning they keep growing throughout their lives. Growth is very fast when they are young. As they reach maturity, their growth becomes nonlinear. These lizards are oviparous, which means they lay eggs. A female typically lays between 8 and 18 eggs. They also have a unique way of shedding their skin. Instead of peeling in one large piece, their skin sheds in small pieces.

Survival in the wild requires clever defense mechanisms. Basilisks often hide from predators by burrowing into the sand. They have a special physical adaptation to help with this. A ring of muscles surrounds both of their nostrils. This muscle ring prevents sand from entering their noses while they are underground. This allows them to stay hidden and safe from danger.

Some species have also moved into new environments. The brown basilisk was introduced to the state of Florida. These lizards have adapted to the colder winters in this new home. They stay warm by burrowing into leaf litter. Scientists have spotted them in places like Boca Raton and Palm Beach County. They have even been seen as far north as Fort Pierce. Some groups have even moved up the North Fork of the Saint Lucie River.