APILIDES

Apilides is a genus of small to medium-sized, often brightly colored lizards belonging to the family Agamidae. The genus is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, with a few species found in Africa. Apilides species are typically diurnal and arboreal, spending most of their time in trees. They are known for their distinctive coloration, which often includes bold patterns and vibrant hues, and their ability to change color in response to environmental stimuli.

The genus Apilides was first described by the German zoologist Albert Günther in 1864. It includes several species, with the most well-known being Apilides fuscus, commonly known as the common tree agama or the green tree agama. This species is widely distributed across the Indian subcontinent and is known for its ability to change color from green to brown, depending on its environment.

Apilides species are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of insects, fruits, and small vertebrates. They are also known for their defensive behaviors, including the ability to inflate their bodies and hiss loudly when threatened. This genus plays an important role in their respective ecosystems, contributing to the control of insect populations and the dispersal of seeds.

Despite their ecological importance, many Apilides species face threats from habitat loss and fragmentation due to human activities such as agriculture and urbanization. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these species and their habitats.