Art by Jackie Blurton
Nature Note by Dr. Roland Shook
Lizards in the genus Cnemidophorus often have the common name of whiptail. This genus has 13 species that occur in New Mexico.
Eight of the 13 species are parthenogenetic. This means that for these species all members are female and they reproduce by producing virtually identical offspring generation after generation. Some may argue that this is the optimum way to reproduce; however, since all offspring are genetically identical to their mother, the amount of genetic variability is greatly reduced. Genetic variability allows a species to adapt to a changing environment.
Many species of Cnemidophorus are active foragers feeding on a variety of invertebrate prey.
These lizards may commonly be seen around homes and yards.
