Ctenophorus spinodomus commonly known as Eastern Mallee Dragon, is a species of agamid lizard endemic to the arid and semi-arid regions of southeastern Australia.
Commonly known as dragon lizards, spinodomus is derived from the Greek words "spinos" (thorn) and "domos" (house), referring to its preference for burrowing habitats among spiny vegetation.
The Eastern Mallee Dragon exhibits a range of physical features that distinguish it from other agamid lizards and which play a crucial role in their survival.
[1] Eastern Mallee Dragons are relatively small typically growing to around 15.5–18 cm in total length [3] with adult females being generally larger than males in body size.
[1] Recent taxonomic revisions in the classification of Australia’s agamid lizards have led to the discovery of numerous new species with considerable ecological and morphological diversity.
[2] They are well adapted to the arid and semi-arid landscapes of this region with its range highly restricted to the presence of Spinifex hummock grass (Triodia) for foraging, shelter and social interactions.
[1] Eastern Mallee Dragons are diurnal, terrestrial[3] agamid lizards which follow a primarily annual life cycle, though some individuals may extend into a second, and rarely a third, season.
[1] Upon emergence, they tend to remain within a few meters and during the hottest part of the day, retreat within the nearest Spinifex clumps, where humidity levels are higher than the ambient environment, and the temperature is notably lower than the surroundings, especially compared to the substrate.
[1] Eastern Mallee Dragons feed almost exclusively on ants, foraging in open areas adjacent to Spinifex and are also known to be opportunistic feeders consuming other insects.