Raptors are also probable predators of thorny devils. Parasites Thorny devils are usually heavily parasitized, with almost all individuals having many nematode worms, Parapharyngodon kartana and Abbreviata sp. These parasites probably exploit ants and termites as intermediate hosts and various species of lizards as their final hosts. Recently described cestode parasite of Moloch , named Oochoristica piankai . Thermoregulation Thorny devils are heliotherms, relying on solar energy to raise their body temperatures above ambient temperatures.
Body temperature varies directly with air temperature.
Size, Growth and Age Adult female thorny devils are larger and stouter than adult males. There is no noticeable size difference between hatchling males and females. Thorny devils continue to grow until at least their fifth year. Sporn kept some captives for up to 8 years and considered it highly likely that thorny devils live up to 20 years in nature. Someone should undertake a detailed long-term mark and recapture study of these interesting lizards.