Ammoxenidae

Ammoxenidae is a small family of burrowing reptiles found in southern Africa. They are commonly known as fork-tongued lizards. This family contains only one genus, Ammoxenus, and two species: Ammoxenus amamoxenus and Ammoxenus spurrelli. These lizards are characterized by their relatively small size, elongated bodies, and powerful limbs adapted for digging. Their coloration typically consists of sandy browns and grays, providing camouflage in their arid environments.

Ammoxenidae are primarily insectivorous, feeding on ants, termites, and other small invertebrates. They possess a specialized diet, with a particular fondness for the eggs and larvae of ants. Their forked tongues are used to detect prey and to sense their surroundings. They are fossorial, meaning they spend most of their lives underground in burrows that they excavate themselves. These burrows provide protection from predators and the harsh desert climate.

The distribution of Ammoxenidae is limited to the arid and semi-arid regions of southern Africa, including parts of Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa. They inhabit sandy plains and areas with sparse vegetation. Reproduction in Ammoxenidae involves laying eggs, typically in their burrows. Their conservation status varies between species, with some facing threats from habitat loss and degradation.