Microhabitat Utilisation of Endemic Lizard Calotes nigrilabris in the Grasslands of Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka

Research reveals that the endangered endemic lizard Calotes nigrilabris exhibits selective microhabitat preferences within Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka. The study found significant differences between available and occupied microhabitats, with vegetation type—particularly Ulex and Rhododendron cover—playing a crucial role in its habitat selection. Temporal and spatial variations in microhabitat use suggest resource partitioning among different life stages. These findings underscore the importance of targeted conservation strategies to protect this species' critical grassland habitats, offering key insights for preserving Sri Lanka's unique biodiversity within UNESCO-listed sites.

Jayasekara, E. G. D. P., Prabhath, M. C., & Mahaulpatha, W. A. D. (2019). Microhabitat Utilisation of Endemic Lizard Calotes nigrilabris in the Grasslands of Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka. Journal of Tropical Forestry and Environment, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.31357/jtfe.v9i1.3952