The basilisk lizard is also called the Jesus Christ lizard for its
amazing ability to run on water. Abundant in the tropical rain forests
of Central America, When threatened, they can drop from a tree into the water and sprint, upright, about 5 feet (1.5 meters) per second across the surface of the water.
To accomplish this, they have long toes on their rear feet with fringes of skin that unfurl in the water, increasing surface area. As they rapidly churn their legs, they slap their splayed feet hard against the water, creating a tiny air pocket that keeps them from sinking, provided they maintain their speed. They can move along the surface like this for 15 feet (4.5 meters) or more. (National Geographic) (Pic: Stephen Dalton)
-Arun
To accomplish this, they have long toes on their rear feet with fringes of skin that unfurl in the water, increasing surface area. As they rapidly churn their legs, they slap their splayed feet hard against the water, creating a tiny air pocket that keeps them from sinking, provided they maintain their speed. They can move along the surface like this for 15 feet (4.5 meters) or more. (National Geographic) (Pic: Stephen Dalton)
-Arun
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