Pronunciation: [aɡˈɑːmə] (IPA) 
The word "agama" is spelled with four letters: a, g, a, and m. The first two letters are pronounced as the schwa sound /ə/, followed by a hard "g" sound /ɡ/ and the "a" sound pronounced as /æ/. The final letter "m" is pronounced as a bilabial nasal sound, denoted by the IPA symbol /m/. The word "agama" refers to a type of lizard commonly found in Africa and Asia, belonging to the family Agamidae.
Agama refers to a collective term used in general to describe a group of reptiles belonging to the family Agamidae. Agamidae is a diverse family of lizards that consists of more than 350 species, with a wide distribution across Africa, Asia, Australia, and parts of southern Europe. They are commonly known as agamas or dragon lizards and are generally characterized by their robust bodies, long tails, and the ability to change color.
Agamas are known for their agamid specific features, such as elongated heads, large, powerful jaws, and well-developed hind limbs. The sizes and colors of agama species can vary significantly, ranging from small, inconspicuous species to larger, brightly colored ones. Many agamas have impressive displays of coloration during courtship or to establish territories.
These lizards are primarily diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, and are found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, deserts, grasslands, and rocky areas. They are primarily insectivorous, feeding on various invertebrates, although some larger species may occasionally consume plants. Agamas are known for their climbing abilities and are often found perched on trees, rocks, or other elevated locations.
Agamas have been popular among reptile enthusiasts due to their appealing appearance, active behavior, and relatively easy maintenance in captivity. Many species are currently kept as pets around the world. They are also regarded as important components of ecosystems, contributing to the balance and diversity of their respective habitats.
The word "agama" originates from the Sanskrit language. In Sanskrit, "agama" means "tradition" or "that which has come down". It can also refer to "scripture" or "religious doctrine". The term has been widely adopted by various cultures and languages, particularly in relation to the religious and philosophical traditions originating from the Indian subcontinent.
