The Fiji Banded Iguana (Brachylophus fasciatus) is an endangered arboreal lizard and a reptile. Iguanas are called iguanids. It is also called the Lau Banded Iguana.

The male Fiji Banded Iguana has two or three white or pale-blue bands across their emerald green body, with spots and stripes. The female is a solid colour of lighter green, with only occasional spots. Both the male and female have a yellow underbelly. It has short crests, or spikes, along their back. It has a dewlap (fold of skin) underneath its chin. It has five long toes on each foot, with sharp claws. It has yellow nostrils.

Fiji Banded Iguana (male)

It has golden-brown eyes and yellow nostrils. It can change its skin colour quickly according to its environment to camouflage itself from its predators.

It measures 60 centimetres (24 inches) in length.

The Fiji Banded Iguana is native to the south-eastern islands of Fiji. It prefers dry forests and coastal swamps. It is arboreal, living most of its life high in the trees.

It is diurnal, active during the day. The male is territorial, defending its territory from other males.

It is herbivorous, eating leaves, fruit, and flowers. Sometimes it will eat insects.

The Fiji Banded Iguana is oviparous, laying 3-6 eggs, which hatch after 160-170 days. The female guards the nest.

Fiji Banded Iguana (female and male)

Fiji Banded Iguana (female)

Photographer: Martina Nicolls

Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM