Komodo Dragonコモドオオトカゲ

Species Data

Classification

Squamata / Varanidae Source

Distribution

Endemic to a handful of Indonesian islands—Komodo, Rinca, Flores, Gili Dasami, and Gili Motang—though fossil evidence shows the species once ranged across Australia until roughly 330,000 years ago. Source

Did You Know?

• For years it was believed that Komodo dragons killed prey using bacteria-laden saliva, but a 2009 University of Melbourne study identified venom glands in the lower jaw that secrete toxins inhibiting blood clotting. Source
• In 2006, females at English zoos that had never been in contact with a male produced viable eggs through parthenogenesis; the hatchlings were all male. Source
• To avoid being eaten by cannibalistic adults, young Komodo dragons spend much of their first few years living in trees and will roll in feces to mask their scent. Source

FAQ

Is a Komodo dragon bite actually venomous?

Yes. A 2009 study identified venom glands in the lower jaw that secrete toxins which inhibit blood clotting, reduce blood pressure, and cause muscle paralysis, overturning the older belief that bacteria in the mouth were solely responsible for weakening prey. Source

Can Komodo dragons reproduce without a male?

Yes, in rare cases. Females that had never had contact with a male have laid fertile eggs through parthenogenesis, as documented at UK zoos in 2006; all resulting hatchlings were male. Source

How long do Komodo dragons live?

In the wild they can live up to about 30 years. In managed care, well-documented individuals have lived into their 30s—the Los Angeles Zoo's "Fluffy" reached roughly 33 years—though claims of individuals living past 50 are not considered reliably verified. Source