Texas Spiny Lizard: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification & Much More

By Tyler Swan

Texas Spiny Lizard: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification

Reptiles are fascinating creatures that come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Today, we will be diving into the intriguing world of the Texas Spiny Lizard. This reptile is one of the many species that can be found across the vast state of Texas.

The Texas Spiny Lizard, scientifically known as Sceloporus olivaceus, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. These ancient reptiles have roamed the Texas landscape for a very long time. They have adapted to survive in the diverse habitats found in the state, including forests, canyons, and prairies.

In terms of physical characteristics, the Texas Spiny Lizard is medium-sized, with an average length of 7 to 9 inches. One of its most distinctive features is the spine-covered scales that adorn its body, giving it the name “Spiny” Lizard. These scales act as a protective armor, helping them blend into their surroundings and deter predators. They also have the ability to change their color depending on their mood or temperature.

In conclusion, the Texas Spiny Lizard is an impressive reptile that has managed to thrive in the diverse habitats of Texas. Its rich history, unique physical characteristics, and ability to adapt make it a fascinating subject of study. Stay tuned for more exciting articles on reptiles as we explore the intriguing world of these scaly creatures!

History of Texas Spiny Lizard

The Texas Spiny Lizard is a fascinating and unique reptile that can be found in the state of Texas. This lizard has a long history and has been a part of the Texas ecosystem for many years. It has adapted to the harsh conditions of the Texas environment and has become a resilient species.

The history of the Texas Spiny Lizard dates back to thousands of years ago when they were first believed to have arrived in the state. They are native to the central and western regions of Texas, where they have thrived in the hot and dry climate. Over the years, these lizards have evolved to have spiky scales on their bodies, which helps protect them from predators.

Texas Spiny Lizards can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and deserts. They are known for their ability to climb trees and are often seen basking in the sun on branches. These lizards are also skilled hunters and feed on insects, spiders, and other small creatures.

Due to their adaptability, the Texas Spiny Lizard population remains stable and continues to thrive to this day. However, like many species, they face threats from human activities such as habitat destruction and pollution. Efforts are being made to protect their natural habitats and conserve these unique reptiles for future generations to enjoy.

In conclusion, the Texas Spiny Lizard is a fascinating reptile with a long history in the state of Texas. It has adapted to the challenging Texas environment and can be found in various habitats. Although facing some threats, steps are being taken to protect and conserve these lizards for the future.

Importance of Texas Spiny Lizard

The Texas Spiny Lizard is a very important reptile for many reasons. Firstly, it plays a crucial role in controlling the population of insects. These lizards mainly feed on bugs like spiders, crickets, and grasshoppers. By eating these pests, they help to keep their numbers in check, which is good for humans because insects can damage crops and spread diseases. Therefore, having the Texas Spiny Lizard around is beneficial to our farms and gardens.

Secondly, the Texas Spiny Lizard is a great indicator of the health of the environment. These lizards prefer to live in areas with lots of trees and plants, so if we see them in our neighborhoods or parks, it means that the natural ecosystem is in good shape. If, on the other hand, we don’t see any Texas Spiny Lizards, it might be a sign that something is wrong with the environment, such as pollution or deforestation. They are like little eco-sentinels, showing us whether or not our surroundings are healthy.

Lastly, the Texas Spiny Lizard is a unique and beautiful creature. Its spiky appearance and colorful patterns make it stand out among other reptiles. By learning about and appreciating the beauty of this lizard, we can develop a sense of wonder and respect for the diversity of life on Earth. Protecting and preserving the Texas Spiny Lizard ensures that future generations will be able to enjoy its beauty as well.

All in all, the Texas Spiny Lizard is an important reptile that helps control pests, indicates environmental health, and contributes to the beauty of our world. It is a special creature that should be cared for and protected.

Amazing Facts About Texas Spiny Lizard

1. The Texas Spiny Lizard is a type of reptile that can be found in the southern and central regions of Texas.
2. It is known for its distinctive spiky appearance, with spines running down its back and along its tail.
3. These lizards are usually medium-sized, ranging from 6 to 9 inches in length, not including their tail.
4. They are primarily active during the day, meaning they are diurnal creatures.
5. The skin color of Texas Spiny Lizards can vary, but they commonly have a brown or grayish base color with dark spots or stripes.
6. Unlike many other lizard species, male Texas Spiny Lizards have bright blue bellies during the breeding season to attract females.
7. These lizards are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, such as forests, deserts, and suburban areas.
8. They are skilled climbers and can often be seen climbing on trees, walls, or fences.
9. Texas Spiny Lizards are omnivorous creatures, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Their diet mainly includes insects, spiders, fruits, and flowers.
10. In order to escape from predators, they have the ability to detach their tails. This is a defensive mechanism known as autonomy.
11. The detached tail can continue to move for a short period of time, diverting the attention of the predator while the lizard escapes.
12. They have excellent eyesight and rely on it to spot prey and predators from a distance.
13. During the hot summer months, Texas Spiny Lizards can often be seen basking in the sun to raise their body temperature.
14. They defend their territory by performing territorial displays, such as head-bobbing or push-ups, to deter intruders.
15. The lifespan of Texas Spiny Lizards is relatively short, ranging from 3 to 5 years in the wild. However, some individuals can live longer in captivity if properly cared for.

Can we keep Texas Spiny Lizard as our Pet?

The Texas Spiny Lizard is a beautiful reptile that is found in certain parts of Texas. However, it is not recommended to keep this lizard as a pet. Let me explain why.

Firstly, the Texas Spiny Lizard is a protected species. This means that it is illegal to capture or harm them. The government has implemented this law to ensure the survival and conservation of these lizards in their natural habitat. By keeping them as pets, we would be contributing to their decline and risk their extinction.

Secondly, the Texas Spiny Lizard has specific needs that may be difficult to meet in a home environment. They require a large living space with plenty of sunlight and suitable hiding spots. It can be challenging to recreate their natural habitat accurately. Their diet also consists mainly of insects, which may not be easily available or suitable for pet owners to provide continuously.

Lastly, it is vital to respect and protect the amazing biodiversity we have on our planet. Many reptile species, including the Texas Spiny Lizard, are facing threats due to habitat loss, climate change, and human activities. Instead of keeping them as pets, we can appreciate their beauty and learn about them through observation in their natural habitats or by visiting zoos or nature centers.

In conclusion, it is not recommended to keep Texas Spiny Lizards as pets. They are protected species, and their captive care can be challenging. Let’s focus on conserving and appreciating them in their natural environment to ensure their survival for future generations.

Size of Texas Spiny Lizard

The Texas Spiny Lizard is a reptile that can be found in the southern parts of the United States, especially in the state of Texas. It is a medium-sized lizard that can grow up to about 8 to 10 inches in length, similar to the size of a ruler. This means that it is not too big, but also not too small.

One interesting thing about the Texas Spiny Lizard is that the males and females can have slightly different sizes. The males are usually larger than the females, with their bodies being thicker and their tails longer. The colors of their scales can also vary, as some may have brown, gray, or greenish patterns that help them blend in with their surroundings.

Even though the Texas Spiny Lizard is not the largest lizard around, they are still quite fascinating to observe. They are known to be excellent climbers and can be often spotted on tree trunks or fences. These lizards have spiky scales along their back and tail, which give them their name. So, if you ever get a chance to see a Texas Spiny Lizard up close, make sure to take a moment to appreciate its size and unique features.

Habitat of Texas Spiny Lizard

The Texas Spiny Lizard is a reptile that calls the great state of Texas its home. This clever lizard can be found in a variety of habitats throughout the state. One of its preferred habitat types is the rocky areas, such as cliffs or canyons. These rocky environments provide the lizard with plenty of hiding spots and crevices to protect itself from predators. Additionally, the lizard can also be found in urban areas with abundant vegetation, such as parks or gardens, where it can find insects and other small prey to eat.

Another important factor for the Texas Spiny Lizard is access to water sources. They prefer habitats that have nearby water, such as rivers, streams, or even artificial ponds. The availability of water is crucial for the lizard’s survival, as it needs to drink and also to regulate its body temperature. So, if you ever spot a Texas Spiny Lizard, it’s likely to be in a place where it can find water nearby.

Lastly, the Texas Spiny Lizard is also known to make its home in trees. They are skilled climber and can often be found basking in the sun on branches or hiding among the leaves. Trees offer a safe place for the lizard to rest and escape from ground-dwelling predators. So, keep an eye out when you’re exploring the woods or even your backyard, as you might just spot one of these fascinating creatures high amongst the branches.

In summary, the Texas Spiny Lizard prefers habitats with rocky areas, access to water sources, and trees. These adaptations help the lizard survive and thrive in the diverse environments found in the Lone Star State. So, next time you’re outside, take a moment to appreciate the habitats that support the fascinating Texas Spiny Lizard.

Evolution of Texas Spiny Lizard

The Texas Spiny Lizard reptile has gone through a remarkable journey of evolution over millions of years. Long ago, its ancestors were not lizards at all, but rather ancient reptiles called archosaurs. These archosaurs eventually split into two groups: the crocodiles and the dinosaurs. The Texas Spiny Lizard belongs to the dinosaur group, specifically the smaller subgroup known as the theropods.

As time went on, the theropod dinosaurs continued to evolve. They developed feathers, which helped them stay warm and probably even allowed them to glide or fly. However, not all theropods became birds. Some, like the Texas Spiny Lizard’s ancient relatives, remained purely terrestrial and evolved into lizards.

The Texas Spiny Lizard itself has also undergone changes over time. Its body shape has adapted to suit its life on the ground. It has strong legs for running, claws for digging, and a long tail to help with balance. Its coloration and spiny scales are believed to have evolved as a way to protect itself from predators or attract a mate.

In summary, the Texas Spiny Lizard’s evolution can be traced back to ancient reptiles called archosaurs. Over time, its ancestors split from the crocodiles and evolved into the dinosaur group known as theropods. While some theropods became birds, others became lizards, including the Texas Spiny Lizard. Through its evolution, this lizard has developed unique attributes that help it survive in its environment.

Classification of Texas Spiny Lizard

The Texas Spiny Lizard is a type of reptile that is found in the state of Texas, in the United States. It belongs to the classification of reptiles, which is a group of animals that are cold-blooded and have scales. These lizards are known for their spiny appearance, with sharp scales that cover their bodies.

In terms of taxonomy, the Texas Spiny Lizard is a part of the Phrynosomatidae family. This family includes many different species of lizards that are commonly found in North and Central America. The scientific name for the Texas Spiny Lizard is Sceloporus olivaceus. It is a medium-sized lizard, typically measuring about 6-8 inches in length.

The Texas Spiny Lizard can be easily identified by its distinct physical features. It has a long and slender body, with a pointed snout and a long tail. The color of its skin can vary, but it is often brown or gray with spines that run along its back. These spines are used as a form of defense against predators, as they can make it difficult for them to grab a hold of the lizard.

In conclusion, the Texas Spiny Lizard is a fascinating reptile that can be found in Texas. It belongs to the classification of reptiles and is a part of the Phrynosomatidae family. With its unique appearance and spiny scales, it stands out among other lizards. It is important to appreciate and protect these creatures to ensure their survival in their natural habitats.

Different Types of Texas Spiny Lizard

1. Eastern Texas Spiny Lizard: Found in the eastern parts of Texas, this lizard has spiky scales, a long tail, and is known to change colors. It is mainly brown or gray, helping it blend into its surroundings and stay safe from predators.

2. Western Texas Spiny Lizard: This species is commonly found in the western regions of Texas. Their bodies are covered in small, sharp scales that resemble spines, giving them protection and their name. They typically have a yellowish or greenish coloration.

3. Texas Horned Lizard: Also known as the “horny toad,” this lizard has a unique body shape with protruding pointed scales on its head resembling horns. Their bodies are covered with dark spots and they have the ability to shoot a stream of blood from their eyes to deter predators.

4. Greater Earless Lizard: These lizards have a slender, elongated body and lack visible ears, hence the name “earless” lizard. They are typically gray or brown with darker markings and can be found in various habitats across Texas, including grasslands, deserts, and rocky areas.

5. Lesser Earless Lizard: Similar to the greater earless lizard, this species also lacks visible ears and has a long, slender body. They are usually light gray or tan in color, with dark spots or bands on their backs. They are agile climbers and commonly seen on rocks or trees.

6. Fence Lizard: Fence lizards are commonly found on fences, walls, or tree trunks. They have rough scales and are known for their ability to escape predators by quickly running up vertical surfaces. Fence lizards have a grayish-brown coloration and patterns on their bodies, which help them blend in.

7. Texas Spotted Whiptail: These lizards are named after their distinctive spotted pattern on their bodies. They are fast runners and can reach impressive speeds. Their colors can vary from light brown to gray, with darker spots dotting their bodies.

8. Great Plains Skink: This lizard is relatively small and has smooth, shiny scales. They have a slender body and short legs. Great plains skinks are brown or gray in color, with black stripes running along their backs. They can often be found near streams or in moist areas.

9. Green Anole: Though it is not exclusive to Texas, the green anole is commonly found in the state. They are known for their ability to change colors, switching between shades of green and brown depending on their mood or environment. They have a slender body and a long tail.

10. Six-lined Racerunner: This lizard is known for its incredible speed and agility. Its body is long and slender, allowing it to dart quickly across open areas. They are usually black or brown with six distinct yellow or white stripes running along their bodies, providing camouflage and protection.

Geographical Presence of Texas Spiny Lizard

The Texas Spiny Lizard is a reptile that can be found in the southern region of the United States, specifically in Texas. It is native to this region and can often be seen in places like forests, scrublands, and even in residential areas. With its unique appearance, characterized by spiky scales and a vibrant blue coloration in males, the Texas Spiny Lizard is a fascinating creature that is well adapted to its surroundings.

However, it is important to note that the Texas Spiny Lizard is not found in all areas of Texas or in other regions of the United States. This lizard tends to be more common in the central and eastern parts of Texas, where the climate and habitat suit its needs. In the western parts of the state, the environment becomes drier and the lizard is less likely to thrive. Additionally, the Texas Spiny Lizard is not found in other states or countries, as it is exclusive to Texas and its neighboring regions.

In conclusion, the Texas Spiny Lizard can be found in the southern region of the United States, specifically in Texas. Its unique appearance and habitat make it a fascinating reptile. However, it is important to remember that this lizard is not found in all areas of Texas or in other regions and countries. It is a species that is exclusive to the central and eastern parts of Texas, where it has adapted and thrives in various types of environments.

Scientific Name of Texas Spiny Lizard

The scientific name of the Texas Spiny Lizard is Sceloporus olivaceus. It belongs to the reptile group, which includes animals like snakes and turtles. This lizard is found in the southern parts of the United States, particularly in the state of Texas.

The Texas Spiny Lizard gets its name from the small spines or scales on its body, giving it a rough and spiky appearance. It has a long and slender body, with a tail that can break off and regrow if needed. This lizard is usually brown or gray in color, which helps it blend in with its surroundings.

Like other lizards, the Texas Spiny Lizard is cold-blooded, which means its body temperature changes with the environment. It is an omnivorous species, meaning it eats both plants and small insects. It uses its sharp teeth and strong jaws to catch and consume its prey.

In summary, the Texas Spiny Lizard is a reptile with the scientific name Sceloporus olivaceus. It is found in Texas and has a spiky appearance due to the scales on its body. This lizard is cold-blooded and eats both plants and insects.

Diet of Texas Spiny Lizard

The Texas Spiny Lizard reptile is a fascinating creature with a unique diet. It mainly feeds on insects and small creatures like spiders and worms. These reptiles have a long and sticky tongue that helps them catch their prey. They are also known to eat small fruits and berries when they are available.

In search of food, Texas Spiny Lizards climb trees and rocks to spot their prey. They wait patiently for the right moment and then strike with their quick and accurate tongue. The tongue sticks to the prey, allowing the lizard to quickly pull it into its mouth.

The diet of the Texas Spiny Lizard is essential for its survival. Insects and small animals provide them with the necessary nutrients, such as proteins and fats, to stay healthy and grow. In turn, the lizard plays an important role in controlling the population of insects in its habitat.

In conclusion, the Texas Spiny Lizard has a diet that primarily consists of insects and small creatures. It uses its long and sticky tongue to catch its prey, and it can also eat small fruits and berries. This reptile’s diet is crucial for its survival and helps maintain the balance in its ecosystem by controlling insect populations.

Locomotion of Texas Spiny Lizard

The Texas Spiny Lizard moves in a very special way. It uses its strong legs to run quickly on the ground. When it wants to climb, it can use its claws to grip onto surfaces like trees or rocks. Isn’t that amazing?

When the lizard moves on the ground, it uses its legs to push off the surface. This helps it move very fast. Its legs are really strong and can carry its body swiftly. When it wants to go up, it uses its sharp claws to hold onto things. This lizard is really good at moving in different places!

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Texas Spiny Lizard

The Texas Spiny Lizard is a fascinating reptile that exhibits interesting social and sexual behaviors. These behaviors help them survive and reproduce.

In terms of social behavior, Texas Spiny Lizards are usually solitary creatures. This means that they prefer to live and hunt alone. However, during the breeding season, which is usually in the spring, males engage in territorial displays to attract females. They do this by bobbing their heads and displaying their bright blue bellies. This helps them establish their dominance and show off their fitness to potential mates.

When it comes to sexual behavior, Texas Spiny Lizards have a unique way of mating. The male lizard grabs the female’s neck with his mouth and mounts her from behind. This is called the cloacal kiss. It allows the transfer of sperm from the male to the female. After mating, the female will lay her eggs in a hidden area, like under a rock or in a burrow, and then abandons them to allow the offspring to develop on their own. This is called oviparity.

Overall, the Texas Spiny Lizard displays interesting social and sexual behaviors. While they usually prefer to live alone, they come together during the breeding season for mating. This reptile’s unique cloacal kiss and oviparity also contribute to their reproductive success. Understanding these behaviors helps us appreciate the incredible diversity of life in our natural world.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Texas Spiny Lizard

The Texas Spiny Lizard is a reptile that goes through a fascinating process called reproduction and has a unique life cycle. Let’s explore how these amazing creatures bring new life into the world!

The life cycle of a Texas Spiny Lizard starts with the female laying her eggs. She digs a hole in the ground using her strong legs and then deposits her eggs inside. Usually, she lays about 6 to 16 eggs, which are whitish and soft-shelled. These eggs are then covered with dirt for protection.

After around two months, the eggs hatch, and tiny baby lizards called hatchlings emerge. These hatchlings are rather delicate and need to be careful to survive in their habitat. They look pretty much like miniature versions of their parents, but their colors might be duller. As the babies grow, their colors will become brighter and more vibrant with time.

As the hatchlings grow older, they start their journey to becoming adults. They go through various stages of development, shedding their skin multiple times as they grow. This process is called molting. It helps them grow bigger and stronger. As adult Texas Spiny Lizards, they will mate and continue the life cycle, starting the process over again.

In summary, the Texas Spiny Lizard follows a fascinating life cycle. It begins with the females laying eggs, then hatchlings emerge from these eggs after a couple of months. As they grow, they shed their skin, and eventually, they become adults, ready to reproduce and continue the cycle. It’s truly remarkable how these reptiles bring new life into the world!

Threats to Texas Spiny Lizard

The Texas Spiny Lizard, a reptile found in the southern parts of the United States, is facing several threats to its survival. One major threat is habitat loss. As humans expand their cities and towns, they often destroy the lizard’s natural habitats, such as forests and grasslands. When these habitats are destroyed, the lizards lose their homes and struggle to find enough food to survive.

Another threat to the Texas Spiny Lizard is the introduction of non-native species. Sometimes, people bring animals from other places and release them into the lizard’s habitat. These new animals can outcompete the lizards for food and resources, which makes it difficult for the lizards to survive. Additionally, they may even prey on the lizards, causing their population to decline.

Lastly, pollution is a major threat to the Texas Spiny Lizard. Pollution from chemicals, oil spills, and other harmful substances can contaminate the lizard’s environment, making it unsafe for them to live. This pollution affects not only the lizards but also their prey and the plants they rely on for shelter. Over time, the accumulation of pollution can harm the lizard’s health and disrupt their natural behavior.

In summary, the Texas Spiny Lizard faces threats such as habitat loss, the introduction of non-native species, and pollution. These factors disrupt the lizard’s natural habitat, food availability, and overall well-being. To protect the Texas Spiny Lizard, it is important for humans to be mindful of their actions and make efforts to conserve and restore the lizard’s natural environment.

Population of Texas Spiny Lizard

The population of the Texas Spiny Lizard reptile is not known for sure, but it is assumed to be quite large. Scientists estimate that there could be hundreds of thousands, or even millions, of these lizards living in the wild. They are found in various regions of Texas and can adapt to different environments.

If, unfortunately, the Texas Spiny Lizard became extinct, it means that there are no more of these lizards left in the world. This could happen if their habitat is destroyed or if they are hunted excessively by predators or humans. Extinction can be devastating for a species, as it means they will never be seen again.

It is important for us to protect and conserve the habitats of the Texas Spiny Lizard and other animals. By taking care of our environment, we can ensure that these wonderful creatures continue to thrive and are not at risk of extinction. It is our responsibility to safeguard the natural world and all the species that call it home, so future generations can also enjoy their beauty.

Conclusion

The Texas Spiny Lizard, a fascinating reptile found in the southwestern United States, has a rich history and several intriguing facts. It belongs to the reptile family and is known for its unique characteristics. Growing up to around 8 to 11 inches in length, this lizard is relatively small compared to some of its reptile counterparts. Its natural habitat includes rocky areas, trees, and shrubs, where it can blend in perfectly with its surroundings.

Classification-wise, the Texas Spiny Lizard is categorized under the family Phrynosomatidae, which is known for their distinctive spiny scales on their backs. These scales, along with the lizard’s pointed snout, help it to survive in its environment by providing camouflage and protection. Just like other reptiles, the Texas Spiny Lizard is cold-blooded, meaning it relies on external heat sources to control its body temperature.

It is important to understand and appreciate the diverse world of reptiles, such as the Texas Spiny Lizard. Reptiles play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystem. Through their unique characteristics and adaptations, they have developed ways to thrive in their specific habitats. By learning about reptiles, especially the Texas Spiny Lizard, we can gain a deeper understanding of the natural world and our place within it. Let’s continue to explore and appreciate the wonders of reptiles and their incredible diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Texas Spiny Lizard (FAQ’s)

Q: What is the scientific name of the Texas Spiny Lizard?
A: The scientific name of the Texas Spiny Lizard is Sceloporus olivaceus.

Q: What is the native range of the Texas Spiny Lizard?
A: The Texas Spiny Lizard is native to central and western Texas in the United States.

Q: How big do Texas Spiny Lizards usually grow?
A: Texas Spiny Lizards typically grow to be around 8 to 10 inches in total length.

Q: What do Texas Spiny Lizards eat?
A: Texas Spiny Lizards are primarily insectivores and their diet consists of various insects and spiders.

Q: Are Texas Spiny Lizards venomous?
A: No, Texas Spiny Lizards are not venomous. They are harmless to humans.

Q: Are Texas Spiny Lizards good climbers?
A: Yes, Texas Spiny Lizards are excellent climbers and are often found perching on trees and rocks.

Q: Do Texas Spiny Lizards have any predators?
A: Yes, Texas Spiny Lizards are preyed upon by various snakes, birds, and mammals.

Q: Can Texas Spiny Lizards change their color?
A: Yes, Texas Spiny Lizards have the ability to change their color to match their surroundings for camouflage.

Q: Are Texas Spiny Lizards social animals?
A: Texas Spiny Lizards are generally solitary animals and do not exhibit strong social behaviors.

Q: Do Texas Spiny Lizards hibernate?
A: Yes, Texas Spiny Lizards hibernate during the winter months to survive the colder temperatures.

Q: How long do Texas Spiny Lizards live?
A: On average, Texas Spiny Lizards live for about 4 to 6 years in the wild.

Q: Can Texas Spiny Lizards tolerate extreme temperatures?
A: Yes, Texas Spiny Lizards have adaptations that allow them to tolerate both high and low temperatures.

Q: Can Texas Spiny Lizards regenerate their tails?
A: Yes, Texas Spiny Lizards have the ability to regenerate their tails if they are broken or detached.

Q: Are Texas Spiny Lizards common in captivity?
A: Yes, Texas Spiny Lizards are occasionally kept as pets and can adapt well to captive environments.

Q: Are Texas Spiny Lizards protected by law?
A: Texas Spiny Lizards are not currently protected under federal law, but some states may have regulations for their collection and trade.

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