The Knuckle Pygmy Lizard (Cophotis dumbara), also known as the Dumbara Pygmy Lizard, is a small, critically endangered reptile native to the Knuckles Mountain Range of Sri Lanka. Named after its restricted habitat, this species is unique due to its distinctive appearance and specialized ecological requirements.
The Native Habitat of the Knuckle Pygmy Lizard
The Knuckle Pygmy Lizard is found exclusively in the montane forests of the Knuckles Mountain Range, a region known for its rugged terrain, lush vegetation, and high biodiversity. These forests are characterized by:
- Cool Temperatures: The high elevation (up to 1,800 meters) means temperatures remain relatively cool, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
- High Humidity: The montane forests maintain high humidity levels, often exceeding 75%, due to frequent mist and cloud cover. This moisture-rich environment is critical for the lizard’s survival.
- Dense Vegetation: The forests provide plenty of leaf litter, moss, and ferns, which form the natural habitat of the Knuckle Pygmy Lizard. They are mostly arboreal, found on low-lying branches, tree trunks, and among ground-level vegetation.
The limited distribution of Cophotis dumbara makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat loss and other environmental pressures, contributing to its critically endangered status.
Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the Knuckle Pygmy Lizard as Critically Endangered due to its very restricted range, habitat fragmentation, and human-related threats. Key factors contributing to its endangered status include:
- Habitat Loss and Fragmentation: Deforestation for agriculture, logging, and development has significantly reduced the montane forest area. The remaining habitat is increasingly fragmented, limiting the lizard’s ability to find mates and food.
- Climate Change: Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns due to climate change can affect the delicate microhabitats that the Knuckle Pygmy Lizard relies on for survival.
- Illegal Wildlife Trade: This lizard’s unique appearance and rarity make it a target for illegal collection and trade. Although the species is protected by Sri Lankan law, poaching remains a threat.
Conservation efforts are needed to protect the remaining habitat, enforce wildlife protection laws, and raise awareness about the importance of conserving this unique species.
Caring for Knuckle Pygmy Lizards in Captivity
Due to their specific environmental needs, Cophotis dumbara requires a well-thought-out approach to care in captivity. Replicating their natural habitat as closely as possible is crucial for their health and well-being.
Enclosure Setup
- Size and Design: The enclosure should be at least 18x18x24 inches (45x45x60 cm) for a pair, providing plenty of vertical space for climbing. A bioactive setup with live plants, such as ferns, moss, and other humidity-loving species, helps maintain moisture levels and mimics the natural environment.
- Substrate: Use a substrate that retains moisture well, such as a mixture of coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, and leaf litter. This helps maintain the high humidity required by the lizards.
- Climbing Structures: Include branches, cork bark, and vines to create an arboreal environment. Knuckle Pygmy Lizards prefer low-level branches and tree trunks, so provide plenty of climbing options at various heights.
- Lighting: Low-level UVB lighting (2-5% UVB output) is used to mimic the filtered sunlight of their natural habitat. This is important for vitamin D3 synthesis and calcium absorption.
- Temperature and Humidity Control:
- Temperature: Maintain daytime temperatures between 20-25°C (68-77°F), with a nighttime drop to 15-18°C (59-64°F).
- Humidity: Keep the humidity between 75% and 90%. Mist the enclosure daily or use a fogger to maintain these levels. Ensure there is some ventilation to prevent mold growth.
Feeding
Knuckle Pygmy Lizards are insectivores, feeding primarily on small invertebrates. In captivity, their diet should include:
- Feeder Insects: Offer small, gut-loaded insects such as crickets, fruit flies, small roaches, and isopods.
- Supplementation: Dust insects with a calcium supplement at every feeding and a multivitamin supplement once a week to ensure proper nutrition.
- Feeding Frequency: Juveniles should be fed daily, while adults can be fed every other day.
