| Mexican Mole Lizard | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Information | |
| Common Name | Five-toed Worm Lizard, Ajolote, and Bipes. |
| Range | Baja California, Mexico. |
| Scientific Classification | |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Reptilia |
| Order | Squamata |
| Family | Bipedidae |
| Genus | Bipes |
| Species | B. biporus |
| Conservation Status | |
 Least Concern | |
The Mexican mole lizard, (Bipes biporus), also known as the five-toed worm lizard, ajolote, or simply as Bipes, is a species of amphisbaenian, which is endemic to Baja California, Mexico. It is one of four amphisbaenians that have legs, and one of three non-extinct species of animals to have only two limbs, with the Lesser and Greater Siren. It should not be confused with the axolotl, a salamander which is usually called ajolote.
Description[]
They are pink, lizard-like reptiles, 18–24 cm (7.1–9.4 in) snout-to-vent length and 6–7 mm (0.24–0.28 in) in width, that live for one to two years. Their skin is closely segmented to give a corrugated appearance, and like earthworms, their underground movement is by peristalsis of the segments. The forelegs are strong and paddle-like, while the hindlegs have disappeared, leaving behind only vestigial bones visible in X-rays.
Reproduction[]
This species is oviparous and the females lay one to four eggs in July. The species only breeds underground. The eggs hatch after two months.
Geographic Range[]
The Mexican mole lizard is found only in Baja California, Mexico.
Behavior[]
Like all other amphisbaenians, this burrowing species only surfaces at night or after heavy rain.
Diet[]
It is an opportunist carnivore and eats ants, termites, ground-dwelling insects, larvae, earthworms, and small animals including lizards. It usually pulls its prey down to the ground to start its meal.