Description
The Banded Iguana (Brachylophus fasciatus) is a reptile indigenous to Fiji. It inhabits tropical dry forests and coastal forests of the fiji islands.
Habitat
Extended Data
Taxonomy
Fun Facts
Banded iguanas are among the most colorful lizards in the world — males have bright emerald green bands contrasting with pale blue bands
They are one of the few iguana species found outside the Americas — their ancestors likely rafted across the Pacific Ocean millions of years ago
Endemic to Fiji, they are found on fewer than 15 islands and are Endangered due to habitat destruction and invasive species
In Fijian culture, iguanas were historically considered sacred (tabu) in some communities and were not to be harmed
Males display their bright colors during territorial disputes and courtship by bobbing their heads and changing their band patterns