The common ameiva (Pholidoscelis chrysolaemus) is a species of lizard endemic to Hispaniola and a number of smaller associated islands. It is known to engage in homosexual mating among males.[2]
Taxonomy
The common ameiva was originally described by Edward Drinker Cope in 1868, as Ameiva chrysolaema. The specific epithet likely comes from the Greekchryso, meaning gold, and laimos, meaning neck or throat, for the yellow throat and belly of this species.[3] In 2016, the species was moved to Pholidoscelis based on genetic sequencing and phylogenetic analyses.[4]
Subspecies
There are sixteen accepted subspecies in The Reptile Database.[3] Given the variation among the subspecies, some authors suggest that they probably comprise more than one species.[4]
The common ameiva is considered a species of least concern by the IUCN Red List due to its broad distribution and adaptable nature to modified environments and impacts, such as habitat destruction and urban development. Some subpopulations, such as in Santo Domingo, appear to be in decline due to the loss of backyards and predation by cats.[1]
^Doody, J. Sean; Dinets, Vladimir; Burghardt, Gordon M. (2021). The secret social lives of reptiles. Baltimore, MD. p. 53. ISBN978-1-4214-4068-2. OCLC1252420021.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
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