Excasus

Excasus is a genus of lizards native to the Philippines, belonging to the family Scincidae. The name "Excasus" is derived from the Latin word "excusus," meaning "excavated" or "hollow," referring to the unique, concave scales on the lizard's body. There are currently two recognized species within the genus Excasus: Excasus guentheri and Excasus oculatus.

Excasus lizards are typically small to medium-sized, with adults reaching lengths of about 10 to 15 centimeters. They are characterized by their distinctive concave scales, which are most pronounced on the sides of their bodies. These scales are thought to help the lizards burrow into the soil, providing them with protection from predators and a cooler environment.

The diet of Excasus lizards consists primarily of insects and other small invertebrates, which they forage for in the soil and leaf litter. Their burrowing behavior allows them to access these food sources more easily than other lizards.

Excasus lizards are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young. The eggs are typically laid in burrows or under rocks, where they are incubated until they hatch. The young lizards are independent from birth and must fend for themselves immediately.

Despite their small size, Excasus lizards play an important role in their ecosystems by helping to control populations of insects and other invertebrates. They are also of interest to herpetologists and conservationists due to their unique adaptations and the threats they face from habitat loss and collection for the pet trade.