What dramatic color change occurs on the chest and belly of male Australian Water Dragons during breeding season?

Bright red or orange coloration

Male Australian Water Dragons undergo a striking seasonal transformation linked to reproductive readiness. While their base coloration in non-breeding states is often muted (dark grey or olive brown), during the breeding season, the chest and belly become intensely colored with bright red or orange markings. This dramatic shift serves as a clear visual signal, likely important for courtship displays or territorial defense among conspecifics. This seasonal chromatic change is a major distinguishing feature compared to the Chinese Water Dragon, whose color maturation typically involves shifting from bright green toward blueish or grayish tones.