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Despite its tiny size, three new species of lizards externally very reminiscent of the legendary dragons. These unusual lizards, found in the Andes, are only a couple of centimeters in length, however bright color in addition with sharp spikes gives these crumbs quite formidable view.
Representatives of the family of “wooden lizards” are often described like miniature dragons, because the structure of their eyes, as well as patterns skin with sharp rows of spikes really make them look like dragons. However, so far only 12 species have been known. representatives of the genus Enyalioides, 5 of which were discovered only in the last seven years.
Three new species of these unusual lizards were found in tropical forests of Peru and Ecuador. High-altitude rainforests are constantly shrouded dense fog, which creates an enabling environment for biological diversity.
Each of the three new species of lizards is different from its own. relatives according to such important body characteristics as skin color, shape and size, as well as their mitochondrial DNA.
Lizard found in the upper part of the river basin Uallaga at an altitude of 1,500 meters in the north of Peru, has a greenish black color with olive spots on the back, and conspicuous white spot on the throat.
The second lizard along the entire length of its 13-centimeter body strewn with scales of different sizes, as well as conical spikes, sticking out of the back and head. As it turned out, this species lives on northern Peru and southern Ecuador. Males tend to have black or green skin color, and females – pale brown.
And finally, the third bright green lizard found in the city of Alto Tambo (Ecuador), is very reminiscent of the Warthog from the movie “How tame the dragon. ”
Dragons DNA Peru
