Two Cuban Anoles, left, the Cuban Knight Anole (Anolis equestris) and right, the Western Giant Anole (Anolis luteogularis). Both are considered giant anoles (~19 cm in snout-vent length, with a tail longer than that). Males slightly larger than females. Both are Cuban endemics, although A. equestris has been introduced into Florida, while A. luteogularis is only found on the western end of the island. The Anolis radiation provides a classic case of adaptive radiation with convergent evolution on the many Caribbean islands. Unrelated species (not sharing common ancestors possessing their traits) have evolved with very similar body forms to fill similar ecological niches on each island. These are categorized as "ecomorphs." Both A. equestris and A. luteogularis are "Crown-giant ecomorphs," since they prefer the higher limbs of tall trees.The A. luteogularis, which is noticeably moulting, was basking on a ladder at a tourist bar near a mojote (a unique limestone formation found in this region), and allowed me to approach quite closely before extending its gular pouch (last photo), whereupon I backed up a bit to give it some space.
#Cuba #Naturephotography #wildlifephotography #birds #reptiles #reptilephotography #ecology #evolution #Anolis #Cubanwildlife #fauna
